Loneliness is becoming an epidemic infecting something like 1 in 4 people in the world. This article covers possible causes, effects of and possible solutions to loneliness from a technologists point of view.
In recent years, the global loneliness epidemic has become a pressing issue, with nearly ONE IN FOUR adults worldwide reporting feelings of loneliness.
A Meta-Gallup survey highlighted this alarming trend, revealing that young adults are particularly vulnerable. But as we examine the factors behind this loneliness, a critical question arises: Is technology playing a role in exacerbating this crisis?
The Double-Edged Sword of Technology
On the surface, technology promises connection. Social media platforms, video calls, and instant messaging apps are designed to keep us in touch with friends, family, and colleagues. However, the reality is more complex. The very tools meant to unite us can often drive us apart.
Over the past decade, social media driven by AI algorithms has increasingly pushed us toward passive consumption—scrolling through endless feeds of carefully curated, often unrealistic snapshots of other people's lives. This passive engagement can lead to harmful comparisons, reinforcing feelings of inadequacy and isolation rather than fostering genuine connections. Add to this the overuse of TV, streaming services, video games, and social media, and it's easy to see how people are drawn into a cycle of isolation.
Furthermore, clickbait journalism, consumerism, and workaholism —especially prevalent in places like Australia—are interconnected with these technological advancements. The constant drive for faster, better, and cheaper solutions can make us impatient with the slower, more deliberate pace of human interaction, leading many to prefer virtual interactions over real-world connections.
The Broader Implications of a Tech-Driven Society
Technology's impact on loneliness extends beyond just our screens. The rise of "me-ism" and a culture where individualism and material success are prioritized over communal well-being has taken hold, especially in Western societies. This culture fosters an environment where loneliness thrives, as people become more disconnected from their communities and each other. They are also living further apart in vast cities such Melbourne (Australia) spanning a width of 100 km or more and other such cities in Australia and other countries are similar. I actually grew up in a small town in the Pomeranian Region of Poland and I can tell you till today, its got a more relaxed and safer feeling till today. Mega cities in my opinion are a breeding ground for loneliness - which is funny because there is more people in mega cities than small towns. You may know the answer to that.
In some countries, like Australia, societal pressures such as workaholism and tall poppy syndrome (where people are criticized for standing out) compound the issue.
Then also in Australia mass focus on national interests such as protests and great sport events or mass events seem to fill the loneliness void but they don't as those events don't always fulfill one-on-one and social interaction often benefited by small groups and outings.
These factors, combined with the distractions of technology, leave little room for meaningful human connections, further fueling the loneliness epidemic in my opinion.
The Physical and Psychological Toll of Loneliness Epidemic
The consequences of loneliness are profound, affecting both our bodies and minds. Researchers reveal the following effects of loneliness:
The physical effects include:
Weakened Immune System: Increased susceptibility to infections.
Cardiovascular Issues: Higher risk of heart disease and stroke.
Increased Mortality: Up to 30% higher risk of early death.
Deprivation of Oxytocin: in small doses Oxytocin is important for humans daily - but being isolated we are deprived of it as its generated with friends, good experiences and human contact such as a touch, handshake, hug, kiss, cuddle. Stronger forms such as sex are great but they can be overdosed which I think may be unhealthy for relationships according to early research but small doses daily are really important such as hugs.
The psychological effects are equally damaging:
Depression and Anxiety: Strongly linked to prolonged loneliness.
Cognitive Decline: Faster mental deterioration, especially in older adults.
Sleep Disturbances: Poor sleep quality.
And socially, loneliness can lead to social withdrawal, which in turn reduces resilience and the ability to cope with stress.
Spiritually, a lack of connection weakens spiritual health, as reduced support hinders engagement in spiritual activities.
Suffice it to say it's a bad report card on the effects of loneliness. I used to think its ok I can endure it.
Overusing technology for entertainment contributes to these issues
Researchers often talk about these effects of use of technology for entertainment:
Eye strain
Sleep disruption
Sedentary lifestyle
Decreased attention span
These are just a few of the side effects so you can Google more or ask AI.
Oxytocin deprivation
Moreover, the addictive nature of digital content can pull individuals away from activities that nurture their well-being including spiritual practices.
Imagining a Better Future
So, what is the solution?
My TV, Streaming Services & Social Media Cancel Goal: One thing I'm working on is detaching myself from TV, streaming services, tv and movie video files from the Torrent era and social media - given the bad effects on the brain which may I think contribute to loneliness. During COVID lockdowns I got into audiobooks, podcasts, books and hobbies and when possible I socialized with friends. Question is in terms of loneliness, has society actually fully recovered from COVID lockdowns or we are still there with loneliness? I plan to keep detaching myself more form these things and do occasional watching with friends of an episode or cinema outing etc. Thats less risky. I think using technology alone for entertainment is risky.
My Oxytocin Goal: Also I've been researching the effects of Oxytocin deprivation in humans as a result of loneliness and isolation. And the importance of positive experiences in person with friends, good music , good outings, hugs, kisses, touch, cuddles(of you are in a position to get them since we are talking about loneliness) and sex in moderation (if you are in a relationship and studies show too much of that and not enough of the mild forms of oxytocin can create overdose which can affect a relationships due to desensitisation effect) - as they say too much of a good thing can be bad. Unfortunately, I live alone so I don't have much access to this, but I am working on connecting with people around the community as well as friends and spiritual community. And I encourage everyone to recognise the need of oxytocin in their daily lives and understand how to get it and how to give it. Because in the end giving Oxytocin to others means you may likely receive some yourself.
While technology isn't the sole cause of loneliness, its role cannot be ignored. Limiting the use of technology for entertainment and focusing on real-life connections are essential steps. However, as a technologist, I also envision a future where technology supports rather than detracts from what matters most.
Imagine a world 300 years from now, much like the future depicted in "Star Trek: The Next Generation." In this society, technology exists in the background, enhancing life without overshadowing the importance of our relationships and connections with:
Sentient creatures
Animals
Plants
Earth
The physical universe
What lies beyond
There would be no "technoworship," only a balanced integration of technology that respects our need for connection, purpose, and community.
Conclusion: Striking the Right Balance
As we continue to navigate the digital age, it's crucial to strike a balance between embracing technology and maintaining the human connections that are vital to our well-being. While technology has the potential to isolate, it also holds the promise of bringing us closer—if we use it wisely.
In the end, the answer to whether technology is helping to cause the global loneliness epidemic lies in how we choose to interact with it. By being mindful of its impact and taking steps to foster real connections, we can mitigate its negative effects and build a more connected, compassionate world.
Happy computing
Michael Plis
References
Article: CNN: The loneliness epidemic: Nearly 1 in 4 adults feel lonely, new survey finds
Research: Meta-Gallup Survey: Almost a Quarter of the World Feels Lonely
