The Loneliness Epidemic

The Loneliness Epidemic: Why We Feel So Alone

Loneliness is becoming increasingly recognised as a significant public health concern but what actually happens when we feel disconnected from others? In this episode of Wise Mind, we explore the research behind the loneliness epidemic and why feeling connected is such a fundamental human need.

We unpack the difference between being alone and feeling lonely, and explore what research tells us about the impact of chronic loneliness on our emotional wellbeing, stress response, physical health and relationships. We also look at why loneliness can become a cycle: feeling disconnected can lead us to withdraw, which can make meaningful connection even harder to find.

From the neuroscience of social connection to the psychology of belonging, we explore what loneliness might be trying to communicate and how we can respond to it more effectively.

Because loneliness isn't a personal failure it's a deeply human experience and a signal that connection matters.

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Crisis Support

This space may include discussions that bring up strong emotions or difficult topics. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, please know you're not alone and support is available.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, we encourage you to reach out to:

Lifeline – 13 11 14 (24/7)

Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636

13YARN – 13 92 76 (A 24/7 national support line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people)

Emergency Services – 000 (if you are in immediate danger)

Acknowledgment of Dr. Marsha M. Linehan and the Origins of DBT

We honor Dr. Marsha M. Linehan, psychologist and professor who created Dialectical Behavior Therapy.

It’s thanks to Dr. Linehan that DBT has become a proven intervention for a range of mental health challenges.

Wise Mind A DBT Podcast gratefully acknowledges that DBT is Dr. Linehan’s work, not ours, and we honor her legacy.