The findings highlight the importance of meaningful relationships and call for greater attention to social connection as a public-health priority.
Nearly one in six people worldwide experiences loneliness, according to a World Health Organization report that places social connection firmly on the public-health agenda.
Published on 30 June 2025, the WHO Commission on Social Connection’s report examines how loneliness and social isolation affect health, education, employment and community life. It calls for coordinated action to help people build and maintain meaningful relationships.
The findings challenge the assumption that loneliness mainly affects older people. WHO reported that between 17% and 21% of people aged 13 to 29 experienced loneliness, with teenagers recording the highest rates. The problem spans age groups and regions, although its prevalence varies.
Understanding the issue begins with distinguishing loneliness from social isolation. Social isolation refers to having too few relationships or interactions. Loneliness is the distress someone feels when their connections do not meet their needs or expectations.
That difference helps explain why a person can feel lonely in a busy workplace or surrounded by acquaintances. The quality of relationships and the support they provide matter alongside the frequency of contact.
The health implications are substantial. WHO links loneliness and social isolation with higher risks of conditions including heart disease, depression and anxiety. These are population-level associations, rather than a prediction that every person experiencing loneliness will develop an illness.
Several circumstances can make connection harder. WHO identifies bereavement, retirement, moving home and losing a job among relevant life changes. Poor health, limited income and inadequate transport or community facilities can also restrict opportunities to interact.
Addressing those barriers requires action beyond encouraging individuals to socialise. WHO identifies accessible parks, libraries, public transport and community groups as promising ways to support connection. Psychological support can also help people who face difficulties building or maintaining relationships.
At an everyday level, the organisation suggests reaching out to friends, volunteering, joining local activities and being more present during conversations. People experiencing more serious difficulties may need additional support and services.
For communities, the report raises a practical question: do people have welcoming, accessible places where they can develop relationships over time? Making those opportunities part of everyday life could give more people a stronger sense of belonging.
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