Blog

TW: This post discusses sensitive topics including suicide, self-harm, and mental health. 

In light of RUOK Day and Suicide Prevention Month, it’s crucial to address a growing concern: loneliness and its impact on mental health in Australia. 

Post-COVID, loneliness has become a significant issue. The Ending Loneliness Organisation (2023) reports that nearly 1 in 3 Australians feel lonely, with 1 in 6 experiencing severe loneliness. While loneliness is widespread across Australia, it’s notably higher in rural areas compared to cities (ELO, 2023). 

Loneliness affects various demographics differently. Men, for example, are 13 times more at risk of loneliness after a relationship breakdown compared to women, who are twice as likely to feel lonely under similar circumstances (Healthy Male, 2023). Moreover, women in heterosexual relationships often carry more of the ‘mental load’ of forging and managing social connections, impacting both their own wellbeing and that of single men (Healthy Male, 2023). 

Socioeconomic factors also play a role, with those in disadvantaged areas 11% more likely to experience loneliness (ELO, 2023). Additionally, people in remote communities, as well as First Nations, LGBTQIA+, and migrant individuals, report higher levels of loneliness, showing that our most vulnerable communities are greatly affected (KPMG, 2022). 

Research has shown that loneliness poses serious mental health risks. Lonely Australians are 4.6 times more likely to suffer from depression and 4.1 times more likely to experience social anxiety (ELO, 2023). It is also linked to premature death, suicidality, and complex psychiatric issues (CDC, 2020). In addition to mental wellbeing, it poses a risk to physical health, as it can double the risk of chronic diseases and quintuple the likelihood of poor wellbeing (ELO, 2023). 

Given these alarming statistics, it’s vital to consider how we can reduce loneliness and enhance mental health in our communities. It begins with asking, ‘R U OK?’ 

What Can We Do? 

As humans, we all thrive on social connections, both romantic and platonic, and need to experience closeness to feel secure and understood by others. But first, we should ask ourselves, how can we alleviate the burden of loneliness within our current relationships? 

It starts with checking in. Often, we see the lives of our friends and family and think they’ve got it all. Friends, family, coworkers, hobbies—how could they ever be lonely? Yet, as many of us know, it is possible to feel lonely even in a crowded room. One remedy for loneliness is to create space in your relationships to foster deep connections and show vulnerability. Allowing yourself or someone else to be vulnerable strengthens bonds and fosters feelings of closeness. It’s also important to challenge the stigma around closeness and remember that everyone deserves platonic intimacy, regardless of gender, race, or background. 

1. Create Safe Spaces for Open Dialogue: If you’re worried about someone, set up a private and comfortable setting to talk. Sharing your own feelings can encourage openness.

2. Take Initiative: If you suspect someone is feeling isolated, organise activities they enjoy—like a picnic or dinner—and invite familiar faces to foster connection.

3. Practice Active Listening: Move beyond superficial greetings. When you ask, ‘How are you?’, listen attentively and show genuine interest in their life and feelings.

4. Join and Promote Peer Support Networks: For those new to an area or seeking new connections, apps and local groups like MeetUp, Bumble BFF, Peanut, or community sports clubs offer excellent opportunities to meet like-minded individuals.

5. Foster Inclusive Environments: Ensure your personal and professional spaces are welcoming. For example, invite new friends’ partners to gatherings or organise team introductions for new hires.

 On R U OK Day, we remind everyone in our community to take the time to check in with yourselves and your loved ones. Remember that communication is key, and it is never too late to ask for help or offer support. 

If you need immediate support, Lifeline is available 24/7 at 13 11 14, and for emergencies, call 000. Help is always available. 

Sources:  

Ending Loneliness Together. (2023). State of the Nation Report: A Deep dive into Loneliness & Social isolation. In https://lonelinessawarenessweek.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/state-of-nation-social-connection-2023.pdf. https://endingloneliness.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/ELT_LNA_Report_Digital.pdf 

Loneliness and Social Isolation Linked To Serious Health Conditions. (2020.). https:/www.cdc.gov/aging/publications/features/lonely-older-adults.html 

The Gendered Nature of Loneliness. (2023). Healthy Male. https://healthymale.org.au/health-article/the-gendered-nature-of-loneliness 

5 million Australians impacted by loneliness. (2022, November 7). KPMG. https://kpmg.com/au/en/home/media/press-releases/2022/11/connections-matter-australians-impacted-by-loneliness-7-november-2022.html