1. Identify your needs

The first thing you should do is figure out exactly what you need to feel connected and thrive at work, Goredema writes. Figure out what types of interactions and levels of engagement you enjoy — whether that's small talk, one-on-one meetings, or group conversations.

Goredema writes that when she identified her needs, she figured out she didn't miss her old work environment, but instead "desperately needed to find avenues to stay connected with others and meet new people on a weekly basis."

Once you figure out what you need, it will be easier to determine whether your solution is a quick fix or something bigger.

2. Assess your options

After you've identified what you need, review the options that could get you closer to your desired level of social interaction, Goredema writes.

Ask yourself questions like "What already exists that I may not have utilized" or "What can I adjust to better suit my needs" or "Are there resources or opportunities I could investigate and learn more about?"

When answering these questions, you should challenge yourself to come up with more than one answer, Goredema writes. Potential ideas could range from finding a nearby coworking space, exploring volunteer opportunities, researching existing networks at your company, taking a class, or joining and engaging in professional associations.

When Goredema reviewed her options, she decided to start a virtual mastermind group for underrepresented professional women. "Bringing together a small group with a common goal gave me the opportunity to forge new connections and help others who were also feeling isolated," she writes.

3. Take a first step

Once you identify the opportunities that could best address your most important needs, take the first step to explore, Goredema writes.

For example, if you want to collaborate with others, you could ask your manager if you could mentor someone who needs to learn a skill you have. Or, if you miss social interactions, you could ask a coworker to meet once a month for virtual coffee.

You'll likely find that these ideas come with the added bonus of accelerating your professional development, leveraging your existing skills, making new connections, or broadening your knowledge and perspectives while simultaneously addressing your feelings of loneliness.

Goredema also writes that it's important to pay attention to how you feel as you take these steps. If you still feel lonely, don't hesitate to talk to someone such as a coworker or a friend about what you're experiencing, and keep an eye on any incremental or sudden changes to your physical or mental health.

"It's not easy to strike the right balance for our work environments, but don't ignore a situation that makes you feel perpetually sad, stressed, or anxious," Goredema writes. "Your work matters, and how you work is important, but your health and well-being are priceless." (Goredema, Harvard Business Review, 5/12)

U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy declared loneliness and isolation an epidemic "that has harmed individual and societal health" in the United States. Read on to learn about his proposal for a national framework "to rebuild social connection and community in America".