Most people feel lonely sometimes, but it usually lasts between a few minutes and a few hours. This kind of loneliness is not serious. In fact, it's quite normal. For some people, though, loneliness can last for years. Researchers say there're three different kinds of loneliness.
The first kind of loneliness is temporary (暂时的). This is the most common type. It usually disappear quickly and does not require any special attention. The second kind, situational loneliness, is a result of a particular situation - for example, a family problem, or the death of a loved one. Although this kind of loneliness can cause physical problems, such as headaches and sleeplessness, it usually doe not last for more than a year.
The third kind of loneliness is the most severe. Chronic (长期的) loneliness lasts more than two years and has no specific cause. People who experience habitual loneliness have problems socializing and becoming close to others. Unfortunately, many chronically lonely people think there's little they can do to improve their condition.
Psychologists are trying to find ways to help habitually lonely people for two reasons: they are unhappy and unable to socialize and there is a connection between chronic loneliness and serious illness such as heart disease. While temporary and situational loneliness can be a normal and healthy part of life, chronic loneliness can be a very sad dangerous condition.
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