We all feel lonely sometimes. Loneliness is no different to hunger or thirst; a signal from our bodies that we need something. Meaningful social connection—especially with people we can be ourselves around, people we can call on in times of need—is a basic human need. But just like these other needs, if left unmet for Read more
The COVID-19 pandemic has drawn attention to loneliness in Australia. This is especially so as Melburnians entered the strictest lockdown to date. Meanwhile, the rest of Australia braces for the possibility of a second wave and people are adapting to new habits and restrictions. This has disrupted our social routines, and in many cases has Read more
In its 2018 budget, the Australian government announced $46 million towards the community visitors scheme which is designed to reduce loneliness in older adults. Earlier this year, Tracey Crouch was appointed the United Kingdom’s first minister for loneliness. While it may seem unusual to some to have government take a role in improving our social Read more
Let’s start with the moment I realized I was already a loser, which was just after I was more or less told that I was destined to become one. I’d been summoned to an editor’s office at the Globe Magazine with the old “We have a story we think you’d be perfect for.” This is Read more