Life events
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experiencing a bereavement
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going through a relationship break-up
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retiring and losing the social contact you had at work
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changing jobs and feeling isolated from your co-workers
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starting at university
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moving to a new area or country without family, friends or community networks.
Circumstances
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have no friends or family
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are estranged from your family
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are a single parent or care for someone else – you may find it hard to maintain a social life
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belong to minority groups and live in an area without others from a similar background
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are excluded from social activities due to mobility problems or a shortage of money
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experience discrimination and stigma because of a disability or long-term health problem, including mental health problems
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experience discrimination and stigma because of your gender, race or sexual orientation
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have experienced sexual or physical abuse – you may find it harder to form close relationships with other people.
what causes loneliness?
Chronic loneliness occurs when feelings of loneliness and uncomfortable social isolation go on for a long period of time. It’s characterized by constant and unrelenting feelings of being alone, separated or divided from others, and an inability to connect on a deeper level. It can also be accompanied by deeply rooted feelings of inadequacy, poor self-esteem, and self-loathing.
If left unchecked, these chronic loneliness symptoms can put you at greater risk for more serious medical and emotional problems, including:
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Depression
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Sleep disorders
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Type 2 diabetes
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Heart disease
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High blood pressure
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Mental health and emotional problems
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Substance use