Copyright © 2024 Discover. All rights reserved

All views, information or opinions expressed in Discover Brighton are solely those of individuals involved and do not represent the opinions of any entity whatsoever, including the businesses mentioned within this publication and those to which are affected.

Loneliness is Louder in the Summer Months

30 May, 2024

Words: Pippa Moyle

www.citygirlnetwork.com

 

In last month’s column, I made a big song and dance about Brighton in May. Heralding it as a month of art, partying and eclectic pop up bars. It exceeded that expectation, with a special mention to the Spiegeltent for giving us our own space for May’s Brighton Girl Drinks.

I also warned of the inevitable FOMO and weather changes. And caused a debate around whether or not it is actually acceptable to wake up covered in glitter midweek (the “yes” camp won). 

But there’s a darker underbelly to the summer months that I didn’t cover: you could feel lonelier than ever. 

It’s no surprise that Loneliness Awareness Week is in June (12th – 18th). As gatherings in streets, promenades and parks are spilling out, walking through the joyous crowds can exacerbate disconnection. It’s like being the protagonist of a Dido music video, but with the smell of BBQs and spilt beer, rather than the pollution of New York streets.

Social media can heighten that feeling, as you scroll through snippets of your friends, family, colleagues and exes having fun in the sun. They’re all smiling, with ice cubes reflecting off their tortoiseshell cateye sunglasses. It’s even worse when they’re making the most of the drinks deal that’s been advertising to you for weeks. 

If you relate to this, you’re part of the 49.3% in the UK. That loneliness you feel can stem from a number of things – with top reasons being poor mental health, a change of routine, becoming a parent, or moving to a new place. The latter drove me to create Brighton Girl, and the rest are why it continues to grow across the country.

A cure for loneliness is to expand your social circle. Brighton Girl events are great for that, as are Connected Brighton. But outside of purpose-built social communities, I’d like to recommend Brighton Book Festival as a perfect hub for connection this month.  

Taking place from 18th – 23rd June at Brighton University City Campus, the Brighton Book Festival celebrates marginalised creators in a series of affordable events across the city. Highlights include writing workshops, poetry readings, and panel discussions around thrillers, comedy and food.

However June rolls out for you, I hope that if you feel a pang of loneliness, you remember that there are plenty of ways to find connection. And they’re waiting for you, whenever you’re ready.

Steven Graham
Author: Steven Graham

Related Articles

Royal palace set to show its true colours

Discover the colours that made history this spring at the Royal Pavilion's immersive COLOUR exhibition in Brighton. The Royal Pavilion, managed by Brighton &Hove Museums, is set to show its true colours this spring as the Regency palace opens a vibrant new...

Ben Sherman SS25 Signature Collection

Ben Sherman SS25 Signature Collection: Brighton to Amalfi Step into the vibrant journey of Ben Sherman’s SS25 Signature Collection, "Brighton to Amalfi," where the essence of Brighton Beach seamlessly blends with the timeless charm of the Italian Riviera. Drawing...

Mounjaro – A Kickstart For Those Who Need It Most?

Brighton is a hub for health and fitness, but for some, the journey to wellness feels like an impossible uphill climb. For those dealing with severe health issues, addictive tendencies, or physical limitations, even starting can feel overwhelming, Trust me, I know...

Picture You Dead / Cast Interview

Peter James’ latest novel Picture You Dead has become a play which is coming to Theatre Royal in March. Kairen Kemp chatted to two of the cast members: Peter Ash and Fiona Wade. Peter, you’re playing David Hegarty. Now I know that Peter James based him, on David...

Hempwell / The UKs Most Trusted CBD Shop

Situated in the heart of the North Laine in Kensington Gardens, Brighton, you will find Hempwell, your one-stop-shop for all things CBD related.  Founded in 2017, the flagship store is located in York and what sets Hempwell apart from other CBD outlets, is the fact...

Valentine’s / Gifts & Unique Date Ideas

Bored of doing the same things on Valentine’s Day? We’ve scoured the city and the internet to find you some unique date and gift ideas to help make this one memorable for all the right reasons. Needle Felting at Circles Store. Join Stephanie, an expert felt maker,...

What’s On / One Garden Brighton February 2025

February is full of exciting activities at One Garden Brighton, with something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a keen gardener, looking for family fun, or just want to pop by for some great food, there’s plenty happening this month. Gardeners’ Q&A Series....

Join BPO’s Centenary Celebrations

Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra has been delighting local audiences for the last one hundred years, and their bold, colourful concerts – from classical masterpieces to cutting-edge music – are for everyone.  Pioneering pianist, conductor, curator and composer...

The Pour House

Our editor was invited to new venue ‘The Pour House’ in Hove for a private dining experience ahead of the launch party. I arrived at new venue The Pour House on a chilly evening in February and was honoured to be one of the first to try the food and cocktails. New...

Japanese Head Spa Benefits

Most of us crave long, lustrous locks and many women opt for hair extensions to achieve this. Although extensions remain a popular beauty trend, they can be expensive, difficult to upkeep and sometimes cause damage to weak or fine hair. 2024 gave way to a ‘natural...