It happens to me more often than I'd like lately, even when there is lots of work to take care of -- assignments, projects, reading material, house chores... It starts with a nagging feeling, goes on to the point where it becomes unnerving and distracting, making me feel uncomfortable. Eventually I can identify it as a deep longing for social interaction.
It's not that I'm a shut-in and don't leave the house, I'm a student with lectures and group project work nearly every weekday. My evenings and weekends right now are mostly spent taking care of other uni work, as the semester is ending and there is a lot to catch up on. It is usually then (such as today) that the feeling starts creeping up on me.
I am guessing the kinds of casual interactions during the day are simply not as satisfying as a deep conversation with a good friend. Unfortunately I'm seeing my friends less right now, they are not the people that attend uni with me and oh the unfinished work... Another contributing factor is the absence of a 'chat' friend of mine from another country (whom I've met several times irl and whom I consider one of my dearest friend), with whom I tend to have meaningful conversations on a nearly daily basis. My bond with my family is very shallow, practically no communication there, so I am left to myself the majority of the time right now and as a result, the loneliness seems to creep up more often.
In these episodes of loneliness I've been wondering how I can best deal with those emotions, as I know it is only a temporary state of being and I cannot let it undermine my uni work.
I also wonder if others experience loneliness / such longing for social interaction in the same way -- a creeping feeling that gradually becomes stronger and eventually unnerves and distracts you from what you're trying to do (by yourself) -- and how they then deal with it. Any thoughts are greatly appreciated.
As for myself, I've lately come to the habit of observing these emotions and trying to see them for what they are -- temporary. Then I try to turn my thoughts to creating something: thinking of exciting game concepts, story lines, or playing some piano, after which I can return back to important uni work. This seems to work out quite well for me most of the time, but sometimes it just won't do. Tonight I was feeling particularly unnerved and nothing seemed to help, but just getting these thoughts out here seems to have alleviated the negative emotions almost entirely for today. Great! :-)
P.S. I haven't visited hubski for a -long- time, my last activity was 500+ days ago...! Yet it feels like not such a long time has past, and I felt like posting this question here. The site/community must have left an impression on me back then! ;) Very thrilled to see this place is still up and running, kudos!
Just to be clear, it's a matter of not having the time to go out and socialize? If it's the case you have work, I recommend finding a local spot amenable to working at (e.g. coffee shop, bar, library, etc) and becoming a regular. Go almost every day for a few weeks, and get to know the people who work there. Aside from the perks you'll get as being a regular, it's also give you a nice dose of friendly non-work-related social interaction.
Turning towards creative endeavors as you've mentioned is also a great distraction, though doesn't solve the issue as well.
Last, even though you're busy, if there's any way you can do it - try to set aside one night a week to devote to hanging out with your friends. Doesn't have to be an all-night bender, either, and no shame in turning in early to work.
Reading, writing, trying to focus on the bigger picture, as you are doing. Music too, dancing alone while making dinner. When none of the above work, i try sleeping, gaming or general avoidance until forced back into society.
It's great you're able to look upon your own emotions and figure them out for yourself, in a sense. Kudos. For myself, I turn to what I enjoy the most photography and music. I'll throw some headphones on, grab my camera, and go for a walk until I find myself.