The Uprising of Loneliness & How to Reconnect
Loneliness has become one of the biggest mental health challenges of our time—quiet, creeping, and painfully common.
The inaugural State of the Nation report on Social Connections reveals that almost 1 in 3 adult Australians say they are lonely, with 1 in 6 reporting severe loneliness.
Following years of disrupted connection from the pandemic, growing reliance on digital communication, and an increasingly isolated way of living, it’s no surprise that many people—especially young adults and middle-aged folks—are feeling emotionally and socially adrift. The report shows:
22% of 18–24-year-olds often or always feel lonely
18% of 45–54-year-olds report the same
Let that sink in. These are not just numbers—they’re people. People who may be smiling in public, showing up to work, even chatting in group chats, while silently struggling with that hollow feeling inside.
Loneliness Comes in Different Forms
It’s not always about being physically alone. Some people are surrounded by others, in relationships, living with family, showing up in communities—and still feel emotionally disconnected. Loneliness can look like:
Feeling like no one really gets you
Missing deep, meaningful conversations
Not knowing who to call when you're struggling
Being part of a group, but not feeling seen in it
If this is you—please know, you're not broken. You’re human.
Here are a few gentle, practical ways to start reconnecting:
1. Get Involved with a Community
Whether it’s a hobby, a cause, or a local group, community connection is a game-changer. True community is about shared values, mutual care, and a sense of belonging. Being part of something that aligns with your heart can lift loneliness in ways you didn’t even know you needed.
How to start:
Write down what lights you up (or what you’re curious about). Cold water swimming? Book clubs? Yoga in the park? Local climate activism?
Search Instagram, Facebook groups, or Meetup.com for local gatherings.
Go with an open heart. It might take a few tries, and that’s okay.
Pro tip: Movement-based communities like walking or run clubs have double the benefit—exercise + happy hormones = a natural mental health boost.
2. Rekindle an Old Friendship
Sometimes the connection you crave is already part of your past. Think of the people who once felt like home—the friends you laughed with, leaned on, or grew with. If distance or life got in the way, that doesn’t mean the door is closed.
Try this:
Make a short list of people who made you feel good. Then send a simple text like:
“Hey, I was just thinking about you—how have you been?”
“I miss our chats. Would love to catch up soon if you’re open to it.”
Let go of ego. Love doesn’t expire.
3. Take a Class or Workshop
Shared learning = natural connection. Whether it’s pottery, guitar, mindful cooking, or a new language, being in a space where everyone is out of their comfort zone invites vulnerability and playfulness.
And when you’re learning something new, your brain opens up to joy, flow, and new friendships.
Search locally or online: community centers, Eventbrite, libraries, even coworking spaces often host creative or wellness-based workshops.
4. Volunteer for Something You Believe In
Volunteering shifts your focus outward. It reminds you that your presence matters and reconnects you with your sense of purpose—both of which are powerful antidotes to loneliness.
Whether it’s walking rescue dogs, planting trees, helping at a food bank, or supporting mental health causes, you’ll meet like-minded people and give your heart something to hold onto.
Bonus: You’ll feel good while doing good.
5. Be Kind to Your Nervous System
If loneliness has you feeling anxious or frozen, you're not alone. Social reconnection can be emotionally intense, especially if you've been hurt, rejected, or isolated for a while.
Before stepping into social spaces, try:
A short grounding meditation
Deep breaths with your hand on your heart
Repeating: “It’s safe for me to connect.”
You don’t have to be bubbly, outgoing, or “on.” You just have to show up as you.
6. Create Space for Genuine Conversations
Let’s ditch the small talk. So many people are craving realness, but everyone’s waiting for someone else to go first.
Next time you’re with someone, ask:
“How are you really doing?”
“What’s been on your heart lately?”
“Is there anything you’ve been carrying alone?”
Real connection starts with real questions.
Loneliness is not a flaw or a weakness—it’s a signal. A sign that your nervous system, your spirit, your heart are longing for deeper connection. And the good news? There are ways to reconnect, even gently. Even slowly. Even now.
From community involvement and rekindling old friendships, to volunteering or learning something new, these small actions add up to something bigger: belonging.