We’re more connected than ever. Digital interactions are always just a pocket-reach away, but despite all modern comforts, many adults still feel isolated and lonely.
According to one study from early 2023, 67% of survey respondents said they felt lonely and angry the previous day compared to just 11% who felt neither emotion.
Loneliness affects everyone, no matter the age group, gender, or culture.
But there’s some people and nationalities who feel more lonely than others. Let’s explore the stats.
Younger adults feel most isolated
The good news is that most people don’t feel lonely. Stats from The Global State of Social Connections show on average people feel either “very connected” “fairly connected”.
However, younger adults (18-44) are more prone to feeling disconnected or lonely compared to adults aged 45+.
Men and women are equally lonely on average
Men and women have different social needs and experiences, so it’s normal to expect slight variations in the loneliness percentage.
When comparing feelings of connectedness worldwide by gender, 73% of men reported feeling connected compared to 72% of women.
This average slightly varied by country, but not by much. For example, the rate of loneliness by gender in countries like the US, India, Brazil, Japan, and Germany mostly align with the global average.
UAE, Congo, and Nicaragua rank highest on the most lonely list
What about the places where people feel most lonely and least lonely?
Well, if you’re a resident of the UAE, Republic of Congo, Nicaragua, Guatemala, or Comoros, you are most at risk of loneliness.
On the flip side, Mongolia, Kosovo, Taiwan, Slovenia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina are countries where people feel least lonely (90%+ respondents answered they felt connected and not lonely).
How to deal with loneliness
As we’ve seen, loneliness can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or nationality.
If you’re feeling isolated, here are some tips on how to cope with loneliness and feel more connected to others.
1. Nurture your existing relationships
Spend time with the people you care about, even if it’s just for a short period of time. Let them know how much they mean to you.
2. Connect with new people
Join a club or group that interests you. Volunteer your time to a cause you care about. Take a class or workshop.
3. Make time for yourself
Do things that you enjoy, such as reading, listening to music, or spending time in nature. Taking care of yourself can help improve your mood and make you feel more connected to the world around you.
4. Seek professional help if you need it
If you’re struggling to cope with loneliness, a therapist can help you develop strategies for managing your feelings and connecting with others.
5. Remember that you’re not alone
Many people feel lonely at some point in their lives. It’s important to remember that you’re not alone and that there are people who care about you.
These are just a few tips for dealing with loneliness. If you’re struggling, please reach out to a friend, family member, or mental health professional for help.
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