Loneliness in young people and parents
Loneliness is more than being alone. It is the painful feeling of not being understood, included, or connected — and it is very common in families.
Loneliness in children and young people
- Wanting friends but finding social rules exhausting
- Feeling different from peers
- Being left out, bullied or copied
- Masking so heavily that no one really knows them
- Losing friends after a diagnosis or change of school
- Spending breaks and lunchtimes alone
What can help:
- One safe friendship is worth more than ten surface ones.
- Interest-based groups (gaming, art, animals, science, drama) often work better than "social skills" groups.
- Online communities can be a real source of connection — with sensible safeguarding.
- Adult-led groups (cubs, scouts, youth groups, faith communities, clubs) can offer structured connection.
Loneliness in parents
- Friends who don't "get it" drift away
- Family gatherings become hard work
- School-gate chat can feel painful
- The relentless schedule leaves little time for friendship
What can help:
- Online and local parent groups, where you don't have to explain everything.
- One trusted friend or family member you can be honest with.
- Short, low-effort contact: a voice note, a quick walk, a coffee.
- Speaking to your if loneliness is affecting your mental health.
Key message
You are not the only one. There are other families walking a very similar path, and connection — even in small doses — protects mental health.