3 Trusted Tips for an UnLonely 2026

Try these simple ideas for better connection with yourself and others

We’re only a few weeks into the new year, and the world already feels more complicated than ever. Each day seems to bring more political, economic, and environmental uncertainty, with no quick fix in sight. If you feel like you want to hibernate for the foreseeable future, you’re not alone. That said, a little social connection can make a big difference for your overall health and wellbeing. The World Health Organization reports that social connection reduces inflammation, lowering the risk for mental and physical health challenges. If you’re looking to have an UnLonely year—without a lot of effort or expense—these three simple tips are a great place to start. Let’s dive in!

1. Read Project UnLonely: Healing Our Crisis of Disconnection. 

Think of this engaging book by Jeremy Nobel, MD, MPH as the field guide to modern connection. Not only does it illuminate what loneliness is, but it also offers research-backed insights on the power of creativity as a path to better connection with ourselves and others. Dr. Nobel says, “By accepting loneliness as a useful bodily distress signal, it is possible to accept the pangs of loneliness as invitations to explore and grow.” Read this book solo or with others to more deeply understand the global crisis of loneliness and disconnection—and what you can do about it. Learn more or download the book club discussion guide.

Image Credit: Avery Books

2. Watch short films.

Films are more than just entertaining. They can increase empathy by bringing a wide range of perspectives and life experiences to our attention, expanding our sense of what’s possible. YOU can use the magic of movies to start meaningful conversations with family members, neighbors, coworkers, and friends. A great place to start? Project UnLonely Films. This free portfolio of short films features more than 150 stories about loneliness and connection. From narrative films to documentaries, dramas to comedies, this wide-ranging collection has something for everyone. Most importantly, the films will remind you of what makes us all human: the desire to connect and belong. Visit Project UnLonely films today, find a film you love, and share it.

Snapshot of the Project UnLonely Films website

3. Make time for creativity.

Creative activities like writing, cooking, and doodling are transformative tools! They can lower stress hormone levels and boost feel-good hormones, keeping our brains and bodies open to compassion and connection. For 12 simple creative prompts you can try right away, visit the CreativityHub. This free online resource features a grid of fun activities that don’t require any special skills or prior art experience. From writing about your favorite animal to making a community playlist, there are so many easy projects to choose from. Best of all, you can submit photos of your work to be featured on the Project UnLonely website and social media accounts. Start creating and connecting!

Artwork sample submitted to the CreativityHub

Thanks for reading! If you found these tips and resources useful, share them with someone you know. Let’s help each other be UnLonely now and in the year ahead.

The Foundation for Art & Healing