Loneliness is a common feeling that can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, or background.

It happens when an individual feels disconnected and isolated from other people, which can lead to negative impacts on physical, emotional, and mental health. However, some groups and individuals are more likely to feel lonely than others due to various reasons. In this article, we’ll explore who is most likely to feel lonely and why.

Older Adults

Older adults are one of the most vulnerable groups when it comes to loneliness. According to a study by AARP, more than 40% of adults aged 65 years and above reported feeling lonely.

There are several reasons for this, including the loss of a spouse, family members or friends, declining health, and mobility problems that make it difficult to socialize. Retirement can also lead to a loss of a sense of purpose, causing feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Single People

People who are single, divorced, or widowed are more likely to feel lonely than those who are married or in a committed relationship.

This is because they do not have someone to share their everyday life with, or they may feel that their social circle has diminished. Lack of social support can lead to loneliness and feelings of sadness and despair, which can exacerbate mental health conditions such as depression.

People with Mental Health Disorders

People who have mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia are at a higher risk of feeling lonely.

This is because the symptoms of these disorders can cause social isolation and withdrawal, which can lead to a loss of friendships and social support. People with mental health issues may also feel that they are stigmatized, making it hard for them to connect with others.

Individuals with Chronic Illnesses

People with chronic illnesses such as cancer, HIV, and Parkinson’s disease are more likely to feel lonely. This is because illnesses can cause dramatic changes in lifestyle, making it harder to engage in activities that they used to enjoy.

Additionally, physical symptoms such as fatigue, pain, and weakness can lead to social isolation, which can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and depression.

Minority Groups

People from minority groups, such as racial and ethnic minorities, LGBTQ individuals, and people with disabilities, are more likely to experience loneliness.

This is because they may feel marginalized from mainstream society or face discrimination, which can lead to a lack of social support. Additionally, minority groups may have different cultural values or identities that can make it harder to connect with others who share similar experiences.

People Living in Rural Areas

People who live in rural areas are more likely to feel lonely than those who live in urban areas. This is because of the isolation that comes with living in a sparsely populated area.

Rural residents may also have less access to social events, cultural activities, and support services, making it harder to connect with others. Additionally, rural areas may have an older population, which can lead to social isolation and loneliness.

Children and Adolescents

Children and adolescents can also experience loneliness, although it may manifest differently than in adults. Children may feel lonely if they do not have close friends or struggle to make connections with peers.

Adolescents may feel lonely due to changes in their social structure, such as moving schools or the loss of a friendship group. Social media can also create feelings of loneliness by highlighting the number of peers that others have while amplifying the fear of missing out (FOMO).

Conclusion

Loneliness is a universal experience that can impact anyone, but it affects certain groups and individuals more than others.

Older adults, single people, individuals with mental health disorders, those with chronic illnesses, minority groups, people living in rural areas, and children and adolescents are all at higher risk of feeling lonely. Addressing the complex reasons behind loneliness requires concerted efforts from the individual, social networks, and the wider community to combat the negative effects that come with isolation and disconnectedness.