What is
LONELINESS?
Healthy Male defines loneliness as a feeling of sadness or distress (emotional suffering) you get when your relationships with others aren’t meeting your need for personal connection. Just as hunger tells us we need food, loneliness tells us a different fundamental need is not being met.
Loneliness is a critical health issue of our time, and it appears to be getting worse. In fact, males living alone, especially those raising children, are the loneliest people in our country.
That’s why Healthy Male has targeted loneliness for this year’s Men’s Health Week campaign.
What you can DO
Everyone will take different approaches to overcoming, or avoiding, loneliness, but investing in your relationships with others is a good way to avoid loneliness. It’s about ‘filling your cup’ with social relationships that feel significant to you, and that are based on mutual respect, trust, interests and values. Here are some thing you can do to help you feel less lonely:
Plan a social activity with family, friends, or colleagues. Even a phone or video call can help you and others combat loneliness.
Look for groups or clubs that align with your interests and hobbies. This can be a great way to meet new people and engage in activities you enjoy.
Make some time in your schedule to volunteer for a cause you care about, and connect with others to feel a sense of purpose.
If your loneliness is persistent or overwhelming, consider talking to a mental health professional who can provide additional support and guidance.
Reach out for SUPPORT
Dealing with loneliness can be a challenging experience, but there are experts available to provide guidance and support. Remember that it's okay to acknowledge your struggles and seek help. Taking the first step can be daunting, but it's important to know that you're not alone. Chatting with your GP can be a great place to start, or you can try seeking support from specialist organisations that deal with loneliness.
Helping people find digital mental health services from trusted mental health organisations across Australia.
Mental health support for Navy, Army and Air Force personnel, veterans and their families. 24/7 phone number: 1800 011 046
A leading provider of relationship guidance and support services for individuals, families and communities Australia-wide.
Promoting positive parenting for fathers and father figures, and gives new dads the support and connection they need.
A network of men’s book clubs in local pubs, which is all about ‘reading books, hitting the pub with the goons, and rowdy conversations.'
A national service provider that aims to bring men together to help them lead a positive lifestyle while strengthening communities.
A national not-for-profit that helps men build meaningful male friendships and connection by creating safe places to share, overcoming the stigma that ‘men don’t talk.’
Focused on supporting people affected by anxiety, depression and suicide. 24/7 support line: 1300 22 4636
Free telephone and online counselling service offering support for Australian men anywhere, anytime. 24/7 support line: 1300 789 978
Providing all Australians experiencing emotional distress with access to 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention services: 13 11 14
Other RESOURCES
If you or someone you know is experiencing loneliness, don't hesitate to seek support. Check out these valuable resources about loneliness in men for further guidance.
Looking for more information about loneliness in men? Explore our comprehensive resource page for insights and guidance on overcoming loneliness and building meaningful connections.
Digital assets that can be used in the lead-up to and during Men’s Health Week 2023. Download and share these assets on your website and social media, and in your e-newsletters, to help spread awareness.
Watch our campaign video for insights on how loneliness affects men in Australia and its impact on their mental and physical health and wellbeing.
A searchable national database launched in March 2023 with more than 1,000 organisations, groups and services who provide opportunities for connection and support for people experiencing loneliness.