What can we do to reduce unwanted loneliness?

It's not known for sure how many people in Spain are experiencing unwanted loneliness . That is, people who lack social connections or whose social relationships are of poor quality. We all understand that feeling lonely is not the same as being alone. When loneliness is not chosen, or when a person feels lonely despite being surrounded by others, they live in a kind of silent limbo.

Unwanted loneliness is not necessarily linked to a particular life stage, although some populations are more vulnerable, such as older women. According to data from the State Observatory of Unwanted Loneliness, 43% of people living alone in Spain are over 65, and 70% of them are women. This organization estimates that 11.6% of the Spanish population experiences unwanted loneliness .

The arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic, with all the restrictions associated with social isolation, also meant an increase in this situation among different groups. According to the European Commission's report, Loneliness in the EU , the pandemic increased feelings of loneliness in all age groups, with a particularly significant rise in the 18-25 age group in the first months of the pandemic, going from 9% to 35%. In the other population groups, the figures also increased between 5 and 15 percentage points. Future studies will be able to clarify whether this increase in the young population is temporary due to the effects of the pandemic.

Raising awareness of the social problem of loneliness

Several factors put older adults at risk, such as living alone, unfavorable economic conditions, and poor health. Unwanted loneliness also impacts people's health and is often stigmatized, perceived as a personal failing, when in reality it is a failure of society as a whole.

While we wait for policies that address this situation systemically, it is necessary to make an effort not to see this problem as isolated incidents but as a scourge that we can all help to overcome.

Sometimes, small gestures can make all the difference, like finding time to be there for someone, to talk.

With this idea in mind, San Juan de Dios is leading the "Monologues of Life Itself" initiative, which gives voice to older adults and addresses the unwanted loneliness, isolation, and social exclusion many of them experience, encouraging us to take small actions that can change this reality. The campaign features Zapata Tenor, an opera singer and comedian, as its ambassador. Diana Casellas, head of the Awareness Area at San Juan de Dios in Spain, points out that "the crisis caused by COVID-19 and its consequences have highlighted the need to raise public awareness about the elderly population." She also explains that unwanted loneliness has increased significantly in recent years, and not only affects people's psychological well-being but is also associated with poorer health and a higher risk of mortality. It is also one of the main risk factors for elder abuse.

Through graphic monologues featuring diverse personalities, we explore situations that prompt us to reflect on stereotypes, prejudices, and instances of social injustice. These monologues serve as a call to action, initiating an intergenerational dialogue. You can participate by submitting a video of a conversation with one or more people, at least one of whom is older, about topics that interest you or that you'd like to share.

A solidarity café to alleviate unwanted loneliness

On the other hand, Solidaritat Sant Joan de Déu has launched the "SJD Solidarity Coffee" campaign. This initiative collects donations to combat unwanted loneliness by funding support projects for people experiencing this situation. These projects range from healthcare and social services, to support programs such as music therapy and animal-assisted therapy, and even research into the impact of loneliness on people's mental and physical health. As part of this strategy, SOM Mental Health 360 is also raising awareness and disseminating information about unwanted loneliness. The campaign, which runs from October 21st to 30th, offers various ways to participate.