Loneliness is the feeling of being alone or isolated, even if you have people around you. This happens when your social interactions don’t meet your expectations or needs. You can feel lonely if you think your social connections are not good enough. Among teenagers and young adults, loneliness is a growing issue that affects mental health and overall well-being.

If you often experience feelings of loneliness, you are not alone: Many young people feel disconnected from traditional social structures and values in today’s polarized world. Political and social tensions make them feel isolated from communities that once supported them. The COVID-19 pandemic made loneliness worse. Lockdowns and social distancing kept young people away from their usual social activities. A Harvard University study found that 61% of young adults felt lonely during the pandemic. Social media and the internet also contribute to loneliness. Although they help people connect, studies show that too much use can lead to loneliness and depression. Social media often sets unrealistic expectations and comparisons, making people feel more isolated. A University of Pennsylvania study found that limiting social media use to 30 minutes a day reduced loneliness and depression.

Adolescents are especially vulnerable to loneliness due to various life transitions, like moving from school to university or starting a job. These changes can disrupt their social networks. During puberty, self-discovery phases and feeling uncomfortable in familiar social circles can also increase loneliness.

If you experience feelings of loneliness, it is important for you not to ignore them. Loneliness has serious effects on both mental and physical health. Long-term loneliness can lead to severe mental health problems like depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. A meta-analysis from 2018 showed that loneliness increases the risk of early death by 26%. It can also cause physical health issues, such as heart disease, a weakened immune system, and sleep problems. A University of Chicago study found that lonely people have higher levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems.

Loneliness can also affect school and work performance. Lonely adolescents often have trouble concentrating and lack motivation, which can impact their education and career prospects. Loneliness is a serious and widespread problem with many causes and severe consequences. It is important for you to tackle feelings of loneliness when you experience them. They should always be taken seriously.