When surveyed about the last time they felt lonely, respondents’ stories fell into three broad categories.
Some of them felt a mismatch of expectations, where one party valued a friendship more than the other party did. There were those who said they always felt like an outsider to their group of friends or family.
Others were worried about imposing on others and their busy lives.
“Everyone has to go through life somehow. You can’t be sharing your problems everywhere. Your problem is yours to solve,” said Sarah Fam, 33.
‘A DIRTY WORD’ AND A HEALTH THREAT
Given the social stigma around mental health issues in general, many youths remain reluctant to open up to others about their struggles.
“It does take a lot of vulnerability to admit to feeling lonely. Because it’s a bit of a dirty word, I feel, among my peers,” said Sheena Lim, 24.
Youths who felt lonely also indicated feelings of shame. Some wondered whether their struggle to feel accepted and be well-liked by their peers was a result of their own social failings.
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