1 in 3 young adults are lonely – and it affects their mental health

Editor's note

One of the biggest transitions we make in life is in young adulthood, when we finish school, head to uni or TAFE, get a job and move out of home. We meet lots of new and different people, and have to navigate the new world of adult relationships.

That’s not easy, writes Michelle Lim, and many young people struggle to make social connections. Her research found one in three Victorians aged 18 to 25 reported feeling lonely three or more days in the past week. This puts them at greater risk of depression and social anxiety.

But there are things parents and teachers can do to better prepare young people for the dynamics of evolving friendships. This includes helping young people identify their strengths, challenging negative views about others, and recognising our innate need to connect.

Fron Jackson-Webb

Deputy Editor/Senior Health + Medicine Editor

Top story

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