Loneliness
Loneliness is the painful sense that your relationships are fewer or less meaningful than you want — you can feel lonely even when other people are around.
Definition
Loneliness is a subjective experience of social disconnection. It is not the same as solitude (being alone by choice) or objective social isolation (having few contacts). Chronic loneliness is linked with higher stress, low mood, and poorer wellbeing. There is no single “loneliness diagnosis,” but related screens for distress, depression, life satisfaction, and self-esteem can help you describe how you are coping.
What it can feel like
- Feeling left out even in a group or at work.
- Wanting closer friendships but not knowing how to build them.
- Feeling that no one really understands you.
- Spending time alone and wishing for more meaningful contact.
Related screening tests on LuriaLab
- Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES)
- Patient Health Questionnaire - Depression (PHQ-9)
- Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS)
- Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10) (K10)
Related articles
- Re-evaluating the Happiness U-Curve: How Psychology Assessments Track Modern Well-Being
- PHQ-9 Depression Test: Free Online Screening & Score Meaning
- Bipolar Disorder: What It Is, Symptoms & Treatment
Related glossary terms
Frequently asked questions
Is loneliness the same as being alone?
No. Solitude can be peaceful. Loneliness is the mismatch between the connection you want and what you feel you have.
Can loneliness affect mental health?
Yes. Persistent loneliness is associated with higher risk of low mood, anxiety, and stress. Support and social connection can help.
Which LuriaLab tests relate to loneliness?
Distress, depression, life-satisfaction, and self-esteem screens can capture how loneliness is affecting you, even though they are not dedicated loneliness scales.
Sources
- Hawkley LC, Cacioppo JT. Loneliness research overview
- WHO — social connection and health