Loneliness in the Digital Age

Key points

Loneliness is rising; despite constant online interaction, people feel more isolated than ever.

Social media creates superficial ties— “likes” and scrolling rarely replace real intimacy.

People turn to chatbots and virtual partners for comfort, but these cannot replace genuine human connection.

Acceptance and commitment therapy helps people live by their values, and rebuild authentic relationships.

Realationship chat bots are on the rise. Source: Adobe Stock/Lorenzo Gulino/ Used with Permission

Loneliness may be described as the great silent epidemic of our age. Despite living in a hyper-connected world, where social media platforms promise constant interaction and hundreds of “friends” at our fingertips, many people report feeling isolated, unseen, and emotionally un