THE LONELINESS EPIDEMIC

Its effect on students at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Courtesy of Craig Chandler

Today, millions of people are dealing with profound feelings of isolation and loneliness. While the COVID-19 pandemic took hold on the world, a silent epidemic slowly built as a result. Loneliness has morphed into a public health emergency. The loneliness epidemic is a complex issue that has social, emotional, and physical impacts. As we navigate an increasingly fast-paced existence, understanding the causes and consequences of this epidemic has become imperative.

In a world inundated with connections, the simple act of truly seeing and being seen can pave the way to a more connected, compassionate and fulfilling future.

Hear From Students

Hear From Experts

We asked UNL students their thoughts on dating apps, alone time, loneliness, communication their feelings to others, and what we owe our friends. Click on the speech bubbles to see our findings.

Dating apps have always seemed like a tool that forces people into boxes, and that those people now feel like they need to act a certain way according to their dating app profile. I believe that this can hurt a relationship before it even starts

Loneliness can be a part of life, but I think society is set up to make people isolate themselves from eachother

My friends are the back bone of my social support system because I am away from home, so I owwe them a lot.

Sometimes I need alone time to recharge from a busy time. Loneliness is when I would love to hang out with somebody and there isn't anyone.

It's hard for me to fully open up about my feelings with people I don't consider close to me or safe. However, I am very comfortable listening to how other people are feeling and offering my support or advice if asked.

We spoke to experts on loneliness and social isolation to gain a deeper understanding on this silent epidemic. Check out our podcast to hear their insights.