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Breaking the Stigma of Loneliness: The Hidden Epidemic with Dr. Michelle Lim

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8th August 2024

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About this episode

In honour of Dying to Know Day and Loneliness Awareness Week Australia, this week I chat with Associate Professor Michelle Lim, the inaugural CEO and Scientific Chair of Ending Loneliness Together.

Michelle dives deep into the pervasive issue of loneliness and how it affects us all, especially those dealing with the death of a loved one.

Michelle explains that loneliness is often misunderstood and concealed, with one in two Australians feeling lonely yet hiding it. We talk about how to approach conversations around loneliness respectfully, ensuring that we don’t invalidate someone's feelings or assume that what works for one person will work for another.

Michelle’s insights are both enlightening and practical, offering ways to support those who feel isolated.

We also touch on the significant difference between loneliness and social isolation, and why it’s essential to understand this distinction. Michelle shares her thoughts on how loneliness can still be felt even when surrounded by people, and why meaningful social connections are crucial.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to better understand and support loved ones experiencing loneliness, particularly after a significant loss.

Remember; You may not be ready to die, but at least you can be prepared.

Take care,

Catherine

Show notes

Guest Bio
Podcast Guest - Image
Dr. Michelle Lim

Chairperson and Scientific Chair of Ending Loneliness Together

Dr Michelle Lim is the inaugural Chairperson and Scientific Chair of Ending Loneliness Together. She is considered the leading Australian scientific expert in loneliness, with more than 80 national media appearances to date. Dr Lim is a Research Fellow at the Iverson Health Innovation Research Institute and Centre for Mental Health at Swinburne University of Technology. She is the Director of the Social Health and Wellbeing (SHAW) Laboratory which generates evidence-based research in loneliness. Her research involves understanding the drivers of loneliness over time, and developing consumer-relevant and effective digital interventions to reduce loneliness. Dr Lim is also a practising clinical psychologist.

Summary

Key Points:

  • Understanding the hidden nature of loneliness and how to have non-threatening conversations.
  • The difference between loneliness and social isolation.
  • The impact of losing an intimate partner and how to support someone through it.

Transcript

1
00:00:00,630 --> 00:00:03,960
Michelle: People who feel lonely
already think they are a burden.

2
00:00:04,110 --> 00:00:05,880
They think they're a shame.

3
00:00:06,180 --> 00:00:07,409
They are embarrassed.

4
00:00:07,439 --> 00:00:09,369
They actually conceal it.

5
00:00:09,400 --> 00:00:12,470
We know that at least one in two
Australians who say that they feel

6
00:00:12,480 --> 00:00:14,870
lonely, they actively conceal it.

... Read More

Resources

 

  • My Loved One Has Died, What Do I Do Now?

Our guide, ‘My Loved One Has Died, What Do I Do Now?’ provides practical steps for the hours and days after a loved one's death. It has a checklist that Danielle refers to in this episode. Download it here.

 

  • Support Services
    If you're feeling overwhelmed by grief, find support through our resources and bereavement services here.

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