In 2020, amid the global COVID-19 pandemic, Harvard psychologist and professor Richard Weissbourd observed a troubling trend: a growing sense of isolation permeating society. This observation prompted him to propose a new study aimed at delving deeper into the loneliness epidemic, a phenomenon that seemed more palpable than ever during times of quarantine and remote interactions via digital platforms.
Recent findings, including a study replicated by insurance company Cigna, found that the percentage of Americans experiencing loneliness increased from 46% in 2018 to 52% in 2019. That upward trend, Weissbourd speculated, may have intensified further under the shadow of the pandemic.
Weissbourd’s study sought to explore the emotional landscape of those affected by loneliness, examining both immediate emotional states and broader social implications. Her goal was to uncover the root causes of loneliness, its subjective experiences among individuals, and its potential long-term consequences for mental health.
As this research unfolds, it opens a critical dialogue about the need for social and structural changes to address the loneliness crisis, which is now more visible and urgent than ever. The insights gleaned from such studies are crucial to guide effective interventions and foster a more connected and supportive community framework.
