Publications
“The quality of people’s relationships is the single clearest predicator of physical health, longevity, and quality of life.”
Painting the Landscape of Loneliness
THE DRIVE TO CONNECT & STRATEGIES TO IDENTIFY YOUR NEEDS
On January 16, 2024, Liv published her first solo-authored book. Written in journal format, her book weaves memories, illustrations, & research. She paints the landscape of loneliness: a personal experience based on multiple factors, yet manageable.
We are in an epidemic of loneliness right now, and this book does an excellent job of reframing something we all experience as scary and shameful, into an opportunity for self-discovery. There are so many great nuggets to ponder! This book is a must read for anyone struggling with loneliness!
~ Jessica Buchanan, New York Times Bestselling Author of Impossible Odds
Loneliness is not a life sentence.
“We must process the grief of loss, even if the loss has never inhabited consciousness. We must grieve the loss of hope in wishes that did not, and will not, come to fruition as dreamed. We must feel through the pain. We must also find a supportive network—at least one soul—to whom we can pour out the pain of loneliness. This process is critical to lessening its intensity, reframing our perspective, & building resiliency. ~ Liv
In Painting the Landscape of Loneliness, author Olivia Ash invites you on a transformative journey to understand the complex terrain of human isolation, while discovering the path towards genuine connection and self-discovery.
In a world more interconnected than ever before, loneliness remains an epidemic, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. Ash delves into the very heart of this pervasive issue, dismantling the misconceptions surrounding it. With compassion and keen insight, she reveals that loneliness is a universal human experience, often overlooked or misunderstood.
A blend of relatable real-life stories and compelling research, the book offers a valuable roadmap for recognizing and comprehending the unique emotional needs that form the foundation of our feelings of isolation. Ash goes on to provide practical strategies that enable us to reestablish connections, both with ourselves and the people around us.
The message of the book is clear: We are not imprisoned by loneliness; we hold the power to remove those bars and open the doors to genuine connections. Painting the Landscape of Loneliness empowers you to become the artist of your own life, enabling you to paint over the landscape of loneliness with vibrant colors of connection, self-awareness, and purpose. It is a compelling narrative of hope and resilience, reminding us that we are not alone in our quest for human connection.
You’re not alone in feeling lonely.
“This book is touches on so many aspects of loneliness. I don’t feel that it is talked about enough. You can be all the things in life and still feel lonely. I know at times I have felt that myself. This book gave me solitude knowing there are others out there struggling and I’m not alone in the way I feel.” ~ Courtney from the U.S.
“A beautifully written memoir from someone who has lived some life! This book walks you through love, loss, pain, and loneliness. It is so real, making you feel seen in your darkest moments. A must read!” ~ LA from the U.S.
“The words in this book spoke directly to my heart with understanding and empathy. In the past 18 months since my divorce I have visited the lands of loneliness talked about in the book. In reading it I've never felt more seen and cheered on to live life to its fullest. This is a must read for anyone who has ever felt lonely!” ~ Sue from the U.S.
“This book is the companion for anyone who has ever felt like their journey is a solitary one. Ash offers the validation from an educated professional, researcher, and trusted friend. To be seen by an author through their words is such a comfort when the world feels dark. Ash's book blooms with the authors revelations of self and universal truths, and her vulnerability is stunning. Share this read with the artists, intellectuals, dreamers, do-ers, and anyone interested to know and understand their feelings that keep them separate, shy or isolated. If we all have these same feelings, maybe we're not really alone.” ~ Dre from the U.S.
In the Spring of 2019, Liv published her award-winning doctoral thesis on the relationship between law students & loneliness: The Prevalence and Effects of Loneliness in the General Population, Lawyer Well-being, and a Survey of Law Students
LIV’S DOCTORAL THESIS
Liv revised her 2019 research in 2022, and published it in Health Matrix: The Journal of Law-Medicine. This updated research addresses the economics and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the perception of isolation.
LONELINESS IN COVID-19, LIFE, AND THE LAW
INTERVIEW IN LAW 360: "LONELINESS IS THE OTHER PANDEMIC"
Liv chats with a journalist to discuss reasons why law students struggle with mental health, and why loneliness is only the tip of the iceberg.
STRATEGIES TO LESSEN LONELINESS
For the second annual "Well-being Week in Law" Liv co-authored a resource outlining actions to reduce lonely feelings. It applies to everyone who struggles with feeling low and isolated.
THE LONELY ADVOCATE
Liv’s article in the Indiana State Bar Association’s magazine, Res Gestae summarizes loneliness in the legal profession & offers solutions.
Media
Creating Combats Loneliness
Olivia discusses her love for abstract art, inspired by artists like Jackson Pollock and the therapeutic nature of the painting process. The conversation highlights the inherent creativity within the legal profession, drawing parallels between legal storytelling and artistic expression. Olivia's passion for art and her unique perspective as a lawyer underscore the idea that creativity can flourish in unexpected places.
Loneliness in the Legal Profession
For the first Well-Being Week in Law, May 2020, Liv shared her award-winning research on the correlation between law students & loneliness.
Liv shares stats from her research.
Podcasts
ABA DISPUTE RESOLUTION WEBINAR
As guest panelist, Liv shares practical guidance on how legal professionals can address lonely feelings in a positive way. The discussion about loneliness begins at minute 47:00
LIV’S BAR EXAM STORY: "ZEALOUSLY ADVOCATE FOR YOURSELF"
Liv shares her personal experience of taking and failing the bar twice before passing it on her third attempt, two months after healing from cranial surgery to repair a hole in her skull due to a genetic condition.
PRACTICING SPIRITUAL WELL-BEING: VOICES FROM THE LEGAL PROFESSION.
For the 2nd annual Well-Being in Law Week, Liv scripted and narrated a video created by attorneys who share their stories of learning how to balance the struggles of the profession with maintaining spiritual health.