A Washington, DC Therapist’s Guide to Build Community to Support Loneliness
Written by: Jane Lim, LICSW, LCSW
A common theme I have been observing through my practice and engaging with others is the concept of loneliness, and a deep desire for community building. I think we can all agree that the global pandemic has played a major role in contributing towards this sense of loss and isolation. As we adjust to the new ‘normal’ and engage in social gatherings, the sense of loneliness can continue to linger.
What is loneliness?
Loneliness can be experienced and perceived differently for everyone. A common way loneliness can be described is a sense of heavy emotion and discomfort around one’s desire for a meaningful connection with others and their perceived reality around such connections. When someone experiences loneliness, there is a disconnect from their desired social connection to their perceived experience.
For the purpose of this post, I’d like to focus on four ways to find community in DC/NOVA. Finding community is vital in overcoming loneliness to support you in cultivating meaningful connections.
Find a community or a common denominator:
Communities come in all shapes and sizes. It’s not a one size fits all. Take some time and reflect on your interests, hobbies, values, and identities. It’s important to find a community that resonates with you because it allows you to meet others with similar interests or beliefs.
Explore activities to participate in:
Immersing yourself into activities of shared interests and values support you in fostering community and sense of belonging. Once you’ve identified your interests and hobbies- you are ready to explore activities or spaces you can get involved in. For example, if you enjoy staying active you can explore opportunities to join fitness classes, intramural teams like VOLO in your area to meet others. If you enjoy reading, finding virtual or in-person book clubs, visiting small business book stores, or attending a poetry slam!
Engage in your neighborhood community:
Your environment matters! Seek out opportunities to engage in neighborhood events such as attending a local farmer’s market, visiting community recreational centers,or try sifting through your community websites/social media accounts that may detail local events in the area. Volunteering in your neighborhood can be a rewarding and engaging way to build connections. Research local non-profit organizations that speak to your interests or values.
I’ve compiled a list of events in DC and Northern VA for you to check out and see if any of these activities/events spark your interests!
Info on DC Neighborhoods: https://washington.org/dc-neighborhoods ; https://www.washingtonian.com/sections/things-to-do/ ;
Info on Arlington Neighborhoods: https://www.stayarlington.com/things-to-do/ ;https://www.ballstonva.org/ ; https://www.rosslynva.org/events/calendar
LGBTQ+ Friendly: https://washington.org/lgbtq; https://thedccenter.org/ ; https://www.capitalpride.org/event/ ; https://stonewallsports.leagueapps.com/pages/dc ;
Taking the first step is the hardest part to getting started.
Acknowledge and validate your emotions behind getting involved with community building. Speak kindly to yourself and practice positive affirmations. You are so deserving of meaningful connections, and you do belong here! You’re not alone! Individual therapy may be a helpful tool to support you in taking steps to making change and building your community.
Begin Working With A Washington, DC Therapist
Cultivating community much easier said than done. But, finding the right support can help offer the healing environment you deserve to overcoming loneliness. Our team of caring therapists can help you and your partner connect on a deeper level. We are happy to offer support with both in-person and online therapy services. You can start your therapy journey with our Washington, DC-based practice by following these simple steps:
Schedule a consultation with us using our contact form.
Meet with one of our skilled therapists.
Start overcoming isolation!
Other Services Offered With The Sterling Group
Our team understands there are a variety of mental health services that may affect your life. This is why our counseling practice believes in healing for the whole self.. Our skilled therapists offer a range of services related to your healing including couples therapy, self-esteem therapy, trauma therapy, and self-discovery. We help folks struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and executive function and ADHD struggles. Additionally, we can provide boundary-setting therapy, LGBTQ+ therapy, life transition therapy, as well as individual counseling for relationship issues. We hope that you’ll reach out to us to get started with counseling and we can’t wait to hear from you.
