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b'This week, Kevin and Niseema talk about ways to recognize and cultivate \\u201cCompanionship\\u201d and \\u201cBelonging,\\u201d the two themes of the Loneliness Scale questions, (see button below.) Did your parents have companions or feel a sense of belonging in their community or social circle? If not, you may have a high tolerance for isolation and loneliness yourself. Birth order is also a factor: first-born children are often the parent/caregiver\'s companions while last-born children are often the loneliest, especially in a large family. Hoarding and addictions can be seen as "companions" too: though in reality, both are very isolating, cutting us off from the sense of belonging we crave. It is a paradox!\\n\\nIn the second half of the show Kevin and Niseema go through four steps that can help EASE your loneliness: Extend your boundaries, have Action plan, Select an activity, and Expect the best. By practicing these four simple steps anyone can move from a sense of isolation and loneliness to a place of companionship and a feeling of belonging.'