By Dr Christina Driver, Dr Thomas Pace and Kali Gray, UniSC
IF you’re feeling lonely, you’re not alone. One in four Australians experience persistent loneliness, affecting happiness, wellbeing and even physical health.
Research shows that when we feel connected, we’re not only happier but physically healthier, with lower stress levels, stronger immune systems and a reduced risk of heart disease.
Loneliness, on the other hand, can have the opposite effect. The brain interprets it as a threat, activating stress responses similar to physical pain. Over time, this can increase inflammation and strain the body.
In contrast, connecting with others triggers hormones such as oxytocin, which promote calm and enhance feelings of belonging. The causes of loneliness are many: long working hours, family separation, digital overload, financial hardship, or major life transitions such as retirement or loss. But social connection can improve wellbeing at any age.
For young people, feeling connected at school or within families reduces depression, anxiety and social distress. Simple steps, smiling at neighbours, joining community groups, or sending a message to a friend, can all strengthen connection. Feeling lonely is not a flaw; it’s a signal that you need more of life’s most essential medicine: human connection.