Background
Mark, a 58-year-old employee working part-time for a facilities management company, has been living alone for several years following the end of a long-term relationship. With many of his friends having moved away or settled into family life, and his adult children living in different parts of the UK, his social circle has gradually become smaller.
Although he enjoys the structure his job provides, his limited working hours mean his afternoons and evenings are often spent alone. Over time, this has led to increasing feelings of loneliness, emotional fatigue, and a persistent sense of disconnection. Concerned about how this is impacting his wellbeing, Mark reaches out to the Life & Progress Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for confidential emotional support.
The Call
EAP Counsellor (Sophie)
Sophie is a trained emotional-support counsellor experienced in supporting employees facing isolation, low mood, and life-stage transitions.
Sophie:
“Hello, Mark. Thank you for calling the EAP today. My name is Sophie, and I’m here to listen and support you. What would you like to talk about?”
Mark:
“Hi, Sophie. I’ve been feeling very lonely lately. I live alone, and outside of work I don’t really see many people. It’s starting to affect my mood, and I just feel quite isolated and stuck.”
Sophie:
“I’m really glad you reached out, Mark. Loneliness can have a big impact on wellbeing, and it’s completely understandable to feel overwhelmed when your social world has become quieter. Would you feel comfortable sharing how this has been affecting you day-to-day?”
Mark:
“Most days feel the same. I work my morning shift, come home, and then it’s just me. I don’t feel motivated to do much, and in the evenings it feels especially quiet. I miss having company — someone to chat to. Even my sleep isn’t great lately.”
Key Themes Identified
- Social Isolation: Living alone with limited social contact outside of work is creating emotional strain.
- Low Motivation and Emotional Fatigue: Lacking stimulation or interaction, Mark feels drained and stuck in a repetitive routine.
- Life-Stage Adjustment: As someone in his late 50s, Mark feels disconnected as friends and family are busy with their own lives.
- Impact on Mood and Sleep: Loneliness is affecting his emotional resilience, energy levels, and sleep quality.
Sophie’s Response
Sophie offers a calm, supportive space for Mark to explore his feelings and identify realistic steps to rebuild connection and wellbeing.
Sophie:
“Thank you for sharing that, Mark. What you’re describing is something many people experience, especially when life circumstances change. If you’re open to it, we could look at some gentle steps to help you feel more connected and less alone. How does that sound?”
Mark:
“Yes, that would help. I just don’t know where to begin.”
Sophie:
“That’s completely okay. One small step might be reintroducing activities you used to enjoy. You mentioned you liked reading — many libraries and community hubs run relaxed book clubs or social groups, often with people around your age. Would something like that feel manageable?”
Mark:
“Yes, I think I could try a book group. It might be a way to meet people without too much pressure.”
Sophie:
“That sounds like a great fit, Mark. Another option is volunteering. A lot of people find that giving a little time to local projects — especially roles that involve helping others — creates a sense of purpose and connection. Would you like me to share some local volunteer opportunities?”
Mark:
“Yes, that actually sounds good. I’ve been wanting something more meaningful to do.”
Sophie:
“Absolutely. And Mark, through your Life & Progress EAP, you also have access to short-term counselling, which can give you regular emotional space to talk things through and build strategies for moving forward. Would you like me to arrange that for you?”
Mark:
“I think I would. It feels like it might help me get back on track.”
Practical Support Offered
- Short-Term Counselling (via the EAP)
Supportive, structured sessions to help Mark explore his feelings, improve emotional resilience, and regain confidence. - Community & Social Engagement Options
Recommendations to try local activities such as book clubs, social groups, or community-based meetups. - Volunteering Opportunities
Information on local roles that could provide meaningful engagement and help strengthen social connections. - Routine and Daily Structure
Encouragement to introduce small routines and goals to give his days more variety and emotional balance. - Follow-Up Support
Sophie schedules a follow-up call to check on Mark’s progress and provide continuity of care.
Outcome
By the end of the call, Mark feels listened to and less alone in his experience. He agrees to:
- Explore a local reading or community group
- Review volunteer roles in his area
- Engage in short-term EAP counselling
Mark feels more hopeful and reassured knowing he has access to ongoing support and practical steps to help reduce his loneliness.
Key Takeaways
- Warm, Non-Judgmental Support
Sophie’s approach created a safe space for Mark to open up about difficult emotions. - EAP as a Support System
Mark benefits from the emotional and practical support available through his Life & Progress EAP. - Strengthening Social Connection
Suggestions around community groups and volunteering give Mark accessible ways to rebuild human connection. - Reintroducing Purpose and Structure
Encouraging routine and meaningful activity provides emotional stability and reduces isolation. - Continued Care
Scheduled follow-up ensures Mark feels supported and guided as he moves forward.
L&P Copyright. E&OE, Feb26
