How to Combat Loneliness When Living in Rural Areas

Loneliness is the new rural dweller or homesteader's number one enemy. After spending years surrounded by people in the city, many people find the lack of people disconcerting. Getting used to being alone much of the time takes awhile, especially if your nearest neighbors are a mile or more away.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Get online. Find discussion groups and discussion boards for the things that interest you. Interact with people online and you’ll make cyber-friends that can help you through the lonely times.
2. Volunteer at your children’s school. Even if you don’t have kids, rural schools are always appreciative of extra help.
3. Get involved in the church of your choice. Planning upcoming activities will help you connect with other adults that share the same values.
4. Donate your time to the local 4-H group or the Boy or Girl Scouts. This will give you the opportunity to make friends with the parents of the kids that attend the activities.

Tips & Warnings

• When you first start volunteering in your new community, allow others to lead the way. Don’t volunteer new ways of doing things until you are accepted by the group.
• Don’t expect everyone to welcome you enthusiastically. Country folk can be set in their ways and look at new people with suspicion.
• Some people moved or stayed in the country because they just aren’t people persons. Respect this and don’t take it personally. These are the generally the first people who will help if help is really needed.