Uncovering America’s Loneliest Group: Shocking Poll Reveals a Growing Epidemic

A recent Gallup poll shows a troubling trend: American men, particularly those in Gen Z and millennial age groups, are feeling lonelier than ever. The poll, conducted from 2023 to 2024, found that 25% of men under 35 experience this loneliness, compared to 18% of women in the same age range.

This isolation isn’t just an American issue. Young men in other countries, including Turkey, France, and Canada, also report significant feelings of loneliness. A Fortune report mentions that one in five young men in these nations feel similarly adrift.

So, what’s behind this loneliness? Experts suggest a mix of factors. Michael Reichert, a psychologist and author, points out that forces contributing to men’s isolation have been growing for generations.

Psychotherapist Justin Yong adds that modern distractions like video games and pornography can provide quick thrills but do little for true emotional connection. These activities can replace genuine intimacy, making it harder for young men to open up about their feelings.

Additionally, societal expectations about masculinity can trap men into feeling they must hide parts of themselves. This can start early; from a young age, boys may learn to bottle up emotions, distancing them from friends and family.

The impact of loneliness can be dire. The World Health Organization (WHO) equates the health risks of feeling isolated to smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day. Chido Mpemba, Youth Envoy for the African Union, emphasizes that loneliness is a global issue affecting many aspects of wellbeing.

Dr. Vivek Murthy, the U.S. Surgeon General, advocates treating loneliness as a serious public health concern. He urges society to invest in rebuilding connections just as vigorously as it tackles issues like smoking and obesity.

This landscape leaves many young men navigating a complex emotional maze. Understanding and addressing these feelings of isolation is crucial for their health and happiness in today’s society.

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Lifestyle,america,gen z,men,millennials