Riley had high hopes that university would be a place where they could meet like-minded individuals and form lasting friendships, leaving behind the loneliness they often felt during their teenage years. However, their plans were disrupted by the pandemic. As they started their studies in Sheffield, the UK was preparing for its second lockdown. Instead of engaging in social activities and events, Riley found themselves confined to their room day after day. With most of their studies taking place online and societies shutting down or transitioning to virtual platforms, Riley didn’t have the opportunity to connect with others on their course. Moving back home during the third lockdown further limited their chances of socializing. Even as events started to resume in their second year, Riley chose not to participate due to nervousness and a lack of confidence in social situations. They now feel socially stunted and wonder if something is wrong with them. Additionally, they worry that they’ve missed their best chances of making friends since they’ve already finished both university and school.
Riley’s experiences reflect the struggles of many young people who are grappling with loneliness in the aftermath of the pandemic and amidst the ongoing cost of living crisis. According to recent data from the Office for National Statistics, nearly one in ten individuals aged 16 to 29 frequently or always feel lonely, the highest percentage among all age groups. Loneliness rates increased for all age groups during the pandemic and have remained high. Professor Andrea Wigfield, the director of the centre for loneliness studies at Sheffield Hallam University, explains that while social isolation can be objectively measured, loneliness is a subjective feeling. She suggests that comparison to others, which is influenced by social media, plays a role in feelings of loneliness. Young people especially feel pressure to have active social lives.
Research indicates that loneliness among teenagers was already on the rise before the pandemic, challenging the notion that older people are the most affected. However, it remains uncertain whether this trend will continue in the long term. Wigfield emphasizes that loneliness is a natural response that signals the need for social connection. However, when loneliness becomes chronic, it can negatively impact one’s health. The pandemic has brought about significant changes in the way people live, with increased reliance on online platforms. Although social isolation rates may have decreased after lockdown, people still experience loneliness. Wigfield notes that it’s possible to feel lonely even in a crowded environment.
Marcus Johnston, a 27-year-old video game artist, is experiencing the effects of these societal changes. Since moving back in with his parents when society shut down in 2020, he has limited social interactions due to his remote work and few friends nearby. He misses the sense of camaraderie found in office environments and hopes to live with friends again soon. Johnston believes that modern society fosters digital isolation, especially with the rise of remote work.
Kate, a 26-year-old who works at a university in Oxfordshire, often finds herself feeling lonely, particularly on weekends when she sees social media posts of friends enjoying outings. She lives with her parents for financial reasons and because most of her friends reside in London. Working mostly from home and rarely encountering colleagues in the office further contributes to her isolation. Kate believes that her single status intensifies her feelings of loneliness, especially when she sees others in long-term relationships or getting married. Interestingly, Kate felt less isolated during the Covid lockdowns since everyone was in the same boat and there were more opportunities for online interactions and activities.