In the run up to Christmas, ITV News Central has been following the stories of people in the Midlands who have overcome loneliness.
According to research by the British Red Cross and the Co-op, almost a fifth of people in our region are lonely.
In the final part of our ‘Faces of Loneliness’ series, we investigated how social isolation affects the older generation.
Recent figures from the charity Silver Line, which has a dedicated helpline for elderly people, show that the West Midlands as a county is one of the hotspots for loneliness calls.
We've been talking to an inspirational 86-year-old from Birmingham. Mavis Horton has managed to overcome her loneliness and she has a special message for anyone struggling this Christmas.
This report was produced by Rebecca Burrows.
People in Leicestershire are being urged to make a pledge to help fight the 'hidden epidemic of loneliness'.
'Within Birmingham there are at least 10,000 older people living alone, many of whom will receive no visits from anyone.'
ITV News Central has put together some information and advice on what to do if you or someone you know is lonely.