Research from the United Kingdom and American indicate a dangerous increase in masculinity-fueled loneliness, especially in the United States and Australia. Recent statistics indicate that 25% of U.S. boys and men aged 15 to 35 reported feeling lonely a great deal of the last day. This observation points to an increasing epidemic of loneliness in younger generations. This phenomenon goes well beyond the young. Conversely, in Australia, middle-aged men age 35 to 49 report the highest levels of loneliness—three times as much as men over 65.
The erosion of male friendships has been particularly acute over the last several decades. In the United States, the percentage of men saying they have no close friends more than tripled. It went from a mere 3% in 1990 to an unfathomable 15% by 2021. During the same time, the percentage of American men who could name ten or more close friends plummeted. It dropped from 33% down to just 13%. This trend has implications not only for men’s social integration at older ages, but their intergenerational connectedness.
Societal change and cultural shift. The children of the 1980s, molded by the “Satanic Panic,” now must contend with the consequences of that childhood. They live with a white-knuckled fear of societal dangers, a fear we have anthropomorphized into the stereotype of “stranger danger.” This world created an atmosphere where it was difficult to build relationships beyond those of immediate family members.
The shrinking “third spaces”—community hubs such as churches, union meetings, and sports clubs—have contributed to a decline in social interactions. Men’s participation in these social institutions has declined sharply, adding to men’s sense of social isolation.
Marketing messages aimed at young men have largely de-emphasized friendship in favor of emphasizing accomplishments. This results in a culture where interpersonal relationships become secondary to achievements and financial gain. As Van Badham insightfully stated, many young men today find themselves “fluent in irony but starved for meaning,” reflecting a void that cannot be filled by superficial interactions.
The implications of loneliness extend beyond mere feelings of isolation. Research from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services indicates that “those who experience social deficits, including isolation, loneliness, and poor-quality relationships, are more likely to die earlier, regardless of the cause of death.” This startling statistic illustrates why loneliness should be treated like the serious public health crisis it is.
Loneliness extends well beyond American borders. Men in Australia, the UK, and indeed across the world are still reeling from this emerging threat. In Australia, middle-aged men are the loneliest demographic. If this critical issue is left uncorrected, it leads to detrimental mental health outcomes. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare says social interaction cuts the risk of depression and anxiety by improving mental health. Though this time, unfortunately, many men find it difficult to form these vital connections.
While these statistics are discouraging, there is good news for those who are trying to overcome loneliness. There is a range of helplines and support services to help men who are dealing with mental health issues related to loneliness. In Australia, Lifeline offers a wealth of tools and materials to support people looking for aid. At the same time, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides the comparable American mission.