Together against loneliness: Discussion group starts in Brandenburg!

Together against loneliness: Discussion group starts in Brandenburg!

A new project in Brandenburg an der Havel could bring a breath of fresh air for those suffering from loneliness. As the City of Brandenburg reports, a discussion group will start on June 26th that would like to offer a platform to people who feel lonely. In a total of ten meetings, which take place every two weeks, the participants should not only be heard, but also actively shape the content of the meetings.

This initiative is supported by the Academy 2nd Half of Life, whose new director Tanja Wichert plans to expand the offerings of the House of Encounters at Jacobstrasse 12. In addition to the discussion group, there is also a weekly breakfast club and a variety of courses on offer, including English, line dancing and memory training. Particularly noteworthy is the new course on the Feldenkrais method, which will be led by Ilse Promnitz from July.

Shared responsibility against loneliness

As social planner Natalie Wateau emphasizes, combating loneliness is a task for society as a whole. The discussion group is dedicated to topics such as the causes and how to deal with loneliness. What is also important is confidentiality and a trusting atmosphere that should enable participants to talk openly about their feelings. The first three dates will provide impulses, after which the group will select the topics themselves.

The problem of loneliness not only affects individuals, but also has dimensions across society. According to current studies, around 8 million people in Germany are affected, which makes up around 10% of the population. Younger adults and older people are particularly vulnerable, with loneliness in certain age groups even exceeding 15%. This social isolation can have serious consequences for mental and physical health, as research shows that lonely people are up to 32% more likely to die than socially integrated people. According to the findings of the... medical journal even more harmful than smoking or excessive alcohol consumption.

A wide range of offers to promote togetherness

In order to effectively combat loneliness, creative solutions are also required. Tanja Wichter plans to open the house for various events, including evenings and weekends, to give more people the opportunity to network. In addition to the breakfast club, a summer exhibition by the graphic artist Clark Yao and a number of creative offerings such as a book club, a theater group and other dialogue formats are also planned. Those interested are encouraged to contribute their knowledge and skills to the offerings in order to further strengthen the sense of community.

Awareness of the issue of loneliness and the challenges associated with it is growing. In recent years, loneliness has increased, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the need for measures to strengthen social networks.

The project in Brandenburg is an important step towards counteracting loneliness and promoting togetherness in society. Whether through the discussion group or the numerous other offers - a good hand is shown here to give people a voice and to experience community.