Have you ever felt lonely even while spending time with people you genuinely care about?
If so, you’re not alone. Many people discover in midlife that being surrounded by others doesn’t automatically create the sense of connection they’re longing for.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
- Why loneliness isn’t always the absence of people but often the absence of feeling known
- How busyness, responsibilities, and surface-level conversations can quietly limit deeper connection
- Why creating opportunities to know and be known may help reduce anxiety and increase a sense of belonging
Take 11 minutes to better understand the difference between spending time together and creating genuine connection—you’re worth it.
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About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon, LCSW, is a seasoned clinician, educator, and host of the podcast Creating Midlife Calm, recognized by Maria Shriver as a “Listen of the Week.” Over the past 40 years, MJ has led more than 50,000 therapy sessions and developed the Inner Challenge mental wellness program and the Inner Challenge Master Class, practical tools for emotional regulation, self-awareness, and resilience taught for more than 30 years in junior high schools and at the University of Notre Dame for freshman football players. Through her podcast, teaching, and coaching, MJ helps people build calmer lives, stronger relationships, and healthier communities.
Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.
