Addressing the surge in loneliness among Americans during COVID-19

The global pandemic has cast a long shadow over the world, exacerbating an already prevalent epidemic of loneliness in America. A recent report unveils a startling reality: 36% of Americans report feeling “serious loneliness.” This issue is particularly pronounced among young adults and mothers with young children, with rates of 61% and 51%, respectively.

Since the onset of the pandemic, loneliness has surged, laying bare the emotional and physical tolls of isolation, everywhere, especially in America. From depression to heart disease, the consequences are severe and far-reaching. Despite the necessity of social distancing to combat COVID-19, we face an urgent need to address the loneliness epidemic.

The findings stem from an online survey conducted in October 2020, involving around 950 Americans. While acknowledging the preliminary nature of the data, the insights offer a critical glimpse into the state of loneliness across the nation.

Authored by experts from the “Making Caring Common” project, the report sheds light on the multifaceted nature of loneliness and its devastating impacts. With young adults and mothers of young children bearing the brunt, the call for action is clear.

Key findings highlight the increased loneliness among young adults since the pandemic’s start. Many report a lack of meaningful interaction, exacerbating feelings of isolation. Furthermore, a significant portion of this demographic is battling anxiety and depression, underscoring the urgency of addressing mental health concerns alongside loneliness.

The report emphasizes the necessity of fostering social connections and reimagining our social fabric. Recommendations include public education campaigns to help individuals cope with loneliness and initiatives to strengthen our social infrastructure. Restoring our commitments to one another is paramount in reviving the nation’s foundational promise of mutual support, especially for the vulnerable.

In the face of this loneliness epidemic, the report calls for a collective effort to rekindle our social bonds and reaffirm our commitments to each other. It’s a timely reminder that, even in isolation, we are not alone in our struggles. Together, we can emerge stronger, more connected, and more resilient.