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Research shows clear link between loneliness and mental health distress

Coinciding with the start of Loneliness Awareness Week (13-17 June), new government research identifies a two way link between the impacts of loneliness and greater mental health distress.  Chronic loneliness, defined as often or always feeling lonely, plays a significant role in the onset and continuation of mental health distress.  Conversely, analysis shows that mental health distress can play a significant role in the onset and continuation of loneliness.  

The research shows that specific groups of people are more vulnerable to the effects of loneliness:

  • young people aged 16-34
  • people with disabilities or long standing health conditions
  • those in the LGBTQ community
  • those in the lowest income quintile

Minister for Mental Health, Gillian Keegan, said that the government is accelerating the rollout of mental health support in schools and expanding community services for adults and young people, to ensure that everyone can access support.  Helpful advice and resources can also be found on the Every Mind Matters website.


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