How audiobooks can help with loneliness

What is loneliness?

Loneliness is a normal human emotion, it’s our bodies' way of telling us we need more human connection. Loneliness means different things to different people. But there is a general sense of isolation or disconnection from others or a feeling we are lacking or missing social connections and companionship.

Loneliness is normally situational, as opposed to depression or anxiety, which can be a constant or all-pervasive feeling we have, no matter what is going on in our lives. We can also feel lonely when we’re not alone, which can feel counterintuitive and confusing.

If you've been lonely for a long time (chronic loneliness), you might experience decreased energy, an inability to focus, insomnia, feelings of self-doubt, hopelessness, or worthlessness. You might even feel cravings for physical warmth, such as hot drinks, baths, or cosy clothes and blankets. Some people feel body aches and pains and a decreased appetite.

Research shows that we can start to fall into a cycle of loneliness: the longer we feel lonely the more we start to isolate ourselves. We can start to feel like there is something wrong with us, or that the world is an unfriendly and scary place when that normally isn’t the case at all.

First and foremost, loneliness is a normal human emotion. Left unchecked, chronic or long-term loneliness can develop into a mental health condition like anxiety or depression.

How can audiobooks help us to manage feelings of loneliness?

When feelings of loneliness start to overwhelm us, turning to audiobooks can be a lifeline, providing comfort and a sense of companionship.

The comfort of a voice

One Marmalade member, Celia, told us: "Loneliness makes me feel cold to my bones, even with the heating on. I often listen to the radio or an audiobook - without it, the silence is deafening. Hearing other's voices and getting lost in stories is comforting.” Whether it's the soothing narration of a beloved classic or the engaging tone of a new thriller, audiobooks offer a presence that can make us feel less lonely.

A world of stories

Stories have an incredible power to connect us to the wider world. Through audiobooks, we can immerse ourselves in diverse experiences and perspectives, effectively stepping into someone else’s shoes. This can be especially comforting for those who are physically isolated due to illness or disability, as it provides a means of escaping the confines of their immediate environment and travelling somewhere exciting.

Building routine and structure

Incorporating audiobooks into daily life can provide structure and something to look forward to each day. Whether it’s listening during a morning walk, while doing household jobs, or as part of a bedtime ritual, audiobooks can create a sense of normalcy and purpose. Marmalade supporter Charli explains: “My dyslexia makes reading a physical book impossible and for years I missed out on reading until I got into audiobooks. I look forward to my commute every day where I get lost in stories.”

A community of listeners

Our team at Marmalade Trust have been huge fans of Listening Books for years. For many of our members who have disabilities or illnesses that impact their ability to read printed books, audiobooks are a vital resource. We love the way Listening Books ensures that everyone has access to the joy and benefits of literature. This inclusivity is fundamental in reducing feelings of loneliness and promoting mental well-being.

At Marmalade Trust, we believe in raising awareness of loneliness and empowering everyone to find meaningful connections. Audiobooks provide a unique and effective way to connect with the world, learn, and feel a part of a community. We encourage our members and anyone experiencing loneliness to explore the vast library of audiobooks available through Listening Books. Let these stories be a source of comfort, companionship, and joy.

For more information about how you can access audiobooks through Listening Books, please visit their website here. If you’d like to grow your understanding of loneliness or learn how to make new connections, Marmalade Trust is here to support you. Visit our website here.