Maintaining interpersonal relationships and socializing with other people are key aspects of emotional and mental health. Human beings, by nature, are designed to bond and connect with others. Therefore, when this fails to happen, it can create substantial problems.

Unfortunately, the country is getting a firsthand look at these problems. Many people today struggle with making friends and finding romantic partners, let alone keeping them.

During the COVID pandemic, numerous individuals stayed home, isolated themselves, and didn't get out into the world where they'd be able to meet and connect with others.

Now, the consequences of this are beginning to emerge. According to a survey conducted by Meta-Gallup, nearly one-fourth of the world's population is struggling with loneliness.

The loneliness problem across the globe

While loneliness is often associated with older adults, this survey brings a new perspective to light. The findings revealed that 27% of people between 19 and 29 feel mildly or very lonely. On the other hand, just 17% of adults 65 and above stated they struggle with loneliness.

Less than half of people older than 45 admitted to being lonely. However, most people younger than 45 cited feeling lonely to a moderate or considerable degree.

Connecting with other people in healthy ways

In the wake of this new survey, Gallup senior research consultant Ellyn Maese warned that no age group remains immune to feeling lonely or suffering the adverse impacts of loneliness.

Because of all the studies centering around how this impacts aging adults, it's easy to buy into the misconception that younger people have nothing to worry about.

Thankfully, there are some steps that folks can take to combat loneliness and develop healthy interpersonal relationships.

Joining social clubs, fitness classes, or other recreational groups in the community are great starting points. These environments bring together like-minded people with similar interests who can easily bond with one another.

Finally, giving a friend a phone call, meeting up with a relative for coffee, or even video chatting with an old acquaintance can go a very long way. Without active work to replace loneliness with positive relationships, people remain more vulnerable to emotional and mental health challenges.