Solitude vs. Loneliness

The words to describe the feeling or state of being on our own may have a multiple dictionary synonyms. But these synonyms when encountered in flesh and blood can have entirely different psychosomatic state of minds. Here we go: solitude vs. loneliness.
Yes, a dictionary referral may tell us they are all the same, but the unfortunate reality says they are not. Loneliness is lacking companionship but solitude is being detached from the social interaction ‘by own wish’. Solitude is chosen, loneliness is inflicted upon us, either by others or by our own selves.
Loneliness is a complex and usually unpleasant emotional response to isolation. Loneliness typically includes anxious feelings about a lack of connectedness or communality with other beings, both in the present and extending into the future. As such, loneliness can be felt even when surrounded by other people. One way of thinking about loneliness is as a discrepancy between one's desired and achieved levels of social interaction,[1] while solitude is simply the lack of contact with people. Loneliness is therefore a subjective experience; if a person thinks they are lonely, then they are lonely as it is a self created enigma. Solitude can have positive effects on individuals. Solitude is also associated with other positive growth experiences, religious experiences, and identity building such as solitary quests used in rites of passages for adolescents.[12]
Chronic loneliness is a serious, life-threatening condition. Loneliness has been linked with depression, and is thus a risk factor for suicide, alcoholism and substance abuse. In children, a lack of social connections is directly linked to several forms of antisocial and self-destructive behavior, most notably hostile and delinquent behavior. In both children and adults, loneliness often has a negative impact on learning and memory. Its disruption of sleep patterns can have a significant impact on the ability to function in everyday life.[32]
Solitude is not the absence of company, but the moment our soul is free to speak to us and help decide what to do with our life. And after all who knows you better than yourself? Have a quality time with yourself to hear your inner voice. It is always the best for you. It’s all in your mind; what path you choose to walk on when left on your own. Choose wisely.
But beware my friend, solitude is a good place to visit but a poor place to stay. Nothing can beat the togetherness and love of family and friends. Speak up and talk away all your fears. Somebody out there is just meant to be with you. No man is an island, entire up to himself. If you hear him talk, he wants another one to step on it. Being with people has its own benefits. Even in hospitals, the premature infants are kept together, concept called co-bedding. It is an unconventional way of helping reduce infant death. It lowers the stress hormone levels and physiology of co-sleeping babies is more stable. We all need support, but make sure you don’t cripple without it.
“How sweet, how passing sweet is solitude!
But grant me still a friend in my retreat,
Whom I may whisper- Solitude is sweet”