Found! Your cure for loneliness

Getting yourself a pet is a great way to beat depression, an offshoot of loneliness, provided you have the time and space to invest in a lifelong friend. If not, here are four other constructive ways you can channelise any negative energy and feel positive about life

The recent spate of suicides in the city, including that of Nidhi Gupta and Deepti Chauhan -- women who jumped to their death from the terraces of the buildings they lived in, after throwing their children off first -- are indicative of the increasingly isolated lives we lead. Isolation breeds depression and suicide is often a fallout of the mental illness. If you've been feeling like you have no one to turn to, the solution is not to give up, but to reach out in a positive way. Here are five ways in which you can do just that.

Get a pet
'There's no psychiatrist like a puppy licking your face' goes the saying. Whether it's the daily walk, feeding time or just lazing at home together, having a pet will send loneliness flying out of the window in no time. Make sure to do some research before you embark on your journey though, as compatibility is essential. Also, get ready to get back in shape as your pet is guaranteed to keep you on your toes.

Get a hobby
A new hobby is a great way to add another dimension to your life besides meeting people who share your interest. Gardening, book clubs, pottery or even making handicrafts from waste, a glance through the workshop listings page in the newspaper will give you lots of options to sign up for.

Get off Facebook
You may have over 500 friends on Facebook, but that won't stop you from being lonely until you make the effort to meet at least one of those 500 in person. Social networking sites might let you in on what your friends have been up to, but listening to them narrate the details, in person can be far more enriching. You'll be surprised by how much you're missing out on by tending to virtual farms instead of sharing a cup of coffee with a friend in the real world.

Travel
Think, 'Eat, Pray, Love.' There are few things that refresh the mind and soul like travel does. Get a new perspective on people, cultures and life. Opt to live in a homestay with locals, sign up for a cookery or dance class and volunteer at the local charity. If you don't want to travel alone, grab a travel partner along, or find one through a trusted travel website, or be open to meeting someone along your journey. Can't travel too far? Even the local tourist hotspot will turn interesting if you choose to turn travel guide.

Volunteer
Choose an orphanage, old age home or even the local animal shelter to volunteer at and watch your friend circle grow. There's something fulfilling about sharing your time with those in need. Besides, it's satisfying to be able to help those who appreciate your support. Volunteering will do wonders for your self-worth as well as give you the pleasure of doing something for society.