There are growing concerns that loneliness is increasing globally, and that this is having a negative impact on health and wellbeing. Recent research from Swinburne University has highlighted that one in four Australian adults are lonely.

Experiencing loneliness increases the risk of depression and anxiety about social interactions; and simultaneously, experiencing depression and anxiety also increases the chance of being lonely.

Loneliness is not a new phenomenon, but its’ impacts on health and wellbeing are under researched, particularly for people experiencing homelessness and disadvantage.

Some recent research does suggest that people on low incomes and with housing stress are at greater risk of loneliness. In our experience, this is accurate, as many of our clients report feelings of loneliness and social exclusion.

This was exacerbated during the Covid-19 pandemic, due to lockdowns and the closure of essential services, but is an ongoing challenge for our clients beyond the end of pandemic restrictions.