It’s no secret that we are in a loneliness epidemic. “What is loneliness, and how do I know if this is the feeling I’m experiencing?” In this episode we validate the increase in loneliness post-pandemic, and how as a society we are attempting to find our way back to connection, both inward and with others. We deconstruct the definition of loneliness, the difference between loneliness and social isolation, loneliness and singlehood, the ACT approach to coping with loneliness, what gets in the way of healthy connection, and methods to overcome these barriers. Dr. Nina and Dr. Carissa reflect on their friendship at the beginning of the episode, which began in graduate school, as well as their take on life-purpose work.   Dr. Carissa Gustafson is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist based in Los Angeles, CA, as well as an Adjunct Professor and Adjunct Clinical Supervisor at Pepperdine University. She specializes in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Her mission is to help people find liberation from suffering and reclaim their lives. Connect with Dr. Nina  Instagram Website Connect with Dr. Carissa Website Reclaim Your Life: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in 7 weeks Instagram Jump into Single on Purpose private community below for forums, chats, live groups, and courses. Join the community Single on Purpose is created by The Angry Therapist, John Kim, who will also be in the rotation of experts. We are starting the podcast with 20 experts across the wellness space. Check out John's website and sign up for his daily life insights in text. It's daily mental health programming in your pocket. For more content, you can follow John on Instagram YouTube, and TikTok, for more self-help-related content. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices