## Introduction - Feelings: Loneliness can evoke fear, [[Sadness]], emptiness, and helplessness. Also abandonment and not being understood by others. - Psychological: Loneliness is closely linked to the behavioural effects. How we feel about ourselves and the world around us. Loss of self confidence and self-esteem. Increased sensitivity to social rejection, and increased risk of depression and anxiety. - Behavioural: Closely linked to the psychological effects. Loneliness makes us withdrawn from others and avoid social situations. This can also affect daily routines and self-care as social support isn't present. ## Health impacts See: - [[Impact of loneliness on mental health and psychological wellbeing]] - [[Impact of loneliness on physical health and functioning]] - [[Impact of loneliness on academic performance]] ## Social impacts See: - [[Impact of loneliness on career prospects and employability]] - [[Impact of loneliness on behaviours and social functioning]] ## Economic and Societal Impacts - [[Impact of loneliness on dropping out of university]] --- ## Impact on Specific Populations - Young People - Men - Marginalised Groups - Disabled Groups - LGBT ## Compounding factors - Loneliness and Poverty - Loneliness and Discrimination - Loneliness and Life Transitions ## Evidence - Key Loneliness Studies and meta-analyses - see [[Evaluating Loneliness]] --- ## See also - [[Why is Loneliness the focus of our BHAG?]]