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Digital Disconnect: More Connected but More Alone

25 July 2024

Digital Disconnect: More Connected but More Alone

Loneliness has emerged as a silent epidemic among younger generations.

By Aimee Wesso Roberts Head: Lifestyle and Wellness Management at AfroCentric Group

Loneliness has emerged as a silent epidemic among younger generations. While more than 43% of people over the age of 60 reported feeling lonely—usually attributed to living arrangements and a decline in social opportunities—studies have indicated that Gen Z (born between the early 1990s and early 2010s) is the loneliest generation.

Loneliness kills. Evidence suggests that loneliness can increase your risk of premature death by 45%, almost as bad as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. In South Africa, we have a strong culture of community and strong family bonds, which should insulate us from the risk of loneliness. However, relocation due to urbanisation, socioeconomic disparities, crime, and technological dependence can all contribute to how significantly feelings of loneliness can impact your health.

The reasons for loneliness in young people are multifaceted and often interlinked. Experiencing more than one of these factors at a time can easily transition an incident from a normal social experience that requires navigation to one that places significant psychological strain on an individual.

While Gen Z is the most connected generation in terms of digital technology, online interactions can sometimes replace deeper, meaningful connections, leading to a sense of isolation even in a crowded digital space. Independently, social media use has not been found to be a predictor of loneliness but rather the life balance of digital and in-person interactions. Additionally, the pressure to succeed academically, professionally, and socially can be overwhelming, leading to stress and a feeling of being disconnected from others who seem to be thriving.

Constant exposure to curated lives on social media can create unrealistic benchmarks for happiness and success, making young people feel inadequate and alone in their struggles. Delaying social media use in teenagers and guided exposure is essential to safeguard against these negative effects. Young people today are more likely to move for education or work, severing traditional community ties and facing the challenge of building new relationships. Preparing young people for these transitional periods can help build resilience in unknown environments.

Loneliness, like other mental health-related challenges, can manifest in various ways. Recognizing the signs is an important first step to helping someone or seeking help yourself. A sudden lack of interest in engaging with friends or participating in activities they once enjoyed can be a red flag. Changes in sleep patterns, appetite, or mood swings as potential indicators of emotional distress are also crucial to note. Moreover, using technology as a constant escape can be a sign that a young person is struggling to connect in the real world.

Family and friends play a pivotal role in providing support. Encouraging open and non-judgmental conversations can create a safe space to share experiences and work through challenges. Spending quality time together and engaging in activities that foster connection, as well as supporting them in joining clubs or volunteering, can provide a sense of community and belonging. However, if loneliness seems to be affecting their daily functioning negatively, suggest seeking help from a mental health professional or even starting out by consulting with their doctor.

Loneliness in younger generations is a complex emerging health issue that requires a compassionate and proactive approach. While environmental factors are hard to overcome, by understanding the causes and signs, and taking steps to foster genuine connections, we can help alleviate the loneliness that many young people face today.