Loneliness Awareness Week runs from 5 to 11 August. As well as increasing awareness about the extent and impact of loneliness, it encourages communities to talk about loneliness to reduce stigma.
Approximately 1 in 3 Australians feel lonely and young people (18 – 24 years) and middle-aged people (45-54 years) report the highest levels.
The impact of loneliness
People who feel lonely are less engaged in physical activity, less productive at work, and more likely to have a social media addiction. They are also:
- 2 times more likely to have chronic disease
- 4 times more likely to have depression
- 4 times more likely to have social anxiety
- 5 times more likely to have poorer wellbeing.
It is important to recognise the signs of loneliness in ourselves and others and try to connect with people who may be feeling lonely.
What are the signs of loneliness?
There are certain life changes when people are more vulnerable to loneliness such as losing a friend or family member, relocating, relationship breakdown, unemployment, becoming a parent, and/or starting university/school.
People might say things like they don’t fit in, don’t feel accepted or belong, or that nobody understands them. People might avoid or withdraw from others to prevent rejection. They may have poor eye contact and/or withdrawn body language. They may be less engaged in conversations and work.
What can you do?
We’re social beings and thrive when we feel heard, seen and understood. If you think a person is lonely, try to make contact on a level you feel comfortable with. If appropriate, invite them to share a meal or join an activity with you. They might not say yes, but having options and knowing that you care will help them feel included.
GPs are well placed to provide holistic care by listening to people and connecting them to services to help reduce their sense of isolation.
For more information visit lonelinessawarenessweek.com.au
