Isolation, whether real or perceived, is something we may all have to face at some point in our lives. The sense of being alone and uncared for is a reason often given by young people to explain a suicide attempt.

Recognising why you may feel isolated will help you to come to terms with your isolation and get help. Reasons for isolation include:

• Parental separation or divorce - not seeing family very often
• Disability such as dyslexia, sensory loss (hearing, vision), physical disability or learning disability
• Being bullied or ignored
• Peer group pressure to do something you do not want to do
• Not having a friend, relative or other significant person to talk to
• The death of a friend, relative or pet
• Being unable to say how you feel Being unable to say what you think without being ridiculed or criticised
• Being different e.g. race, culture, appearance, intelligence, sexuality, taste, likes or dislikes Not sharing the same interests as others Not having the same sporting ability as others
• Being abused at home e.g. physical abuse, sexual abuse or verbal abuse
• Having different views and opinions to others

If you feel lonely or isolated you must do something about it now. You are not alone!

Call the Samaritans now on 08457 90 90 90
or click on on their website, listed below.

You can talk to Childline on 0800 1111, a free 24-hour helpline for children and young people.  They also have a website which is at the bottom of this page.

You can also speak confidentially to one of Connexions personal advisers by phoning our free phone number: 0800 435 709.