Young women hit hardest by loneliness, survey finds

Young women are more likely than their male peers to experience loneliness, with almost two-thirds of women aged between 12-25 reporting feelings of isolation and a lack of companionship.

Conducted by national youth mental health organisation headspace, research results have found these concerns increase considerably for young women aged 18-21.

The cohort experiences loneliness more than any other age group of young Australian people, with almost 80 per cent stating they feel left out “often or some of the time”.

Nicola Palfrey, head of clinical leadership at headspace, said young adulthood is marked by several major changes, including gaining greater independence and leaving school, which can contribute to feelings of loneliness.

“Moving out of the family home or no longer seeing your friends and teachers everyday can increase the likelihood of feeling lonely,” she said.

“These support networks, which were once very accessible for young people, can be strained by distance or changes in routine.”

She said there were a “variety of reasons” why young adult women may be experiencing loneliness.

“The same survey told us that young women and people in this specific age range were more likely to display problematic social media use,” Ms Palfrey said.

“Social media bombards us with images of people having a great time, surrounded by friends, which can make us feel lonely, or like we’re missing out.

“Studies have also shown that young women are less likely to engage in community sport, which can be a great way of routinely catching up with mates when you leave school.”

While young women typically indicate a greater willingness than young males to seek support from a mental health professional, young women aged between 18-21 are also the cohort least likely to seek help.

These findings have prompted headspace to urge young women to seek out new opportunities for social connection.

“Coping with loneliness can be tough,” Ms Palfrey said.

“Although it can be hard reaching out to others to let them know what you’re going through, it can help you feel supported, less isolated and it can be the beginning of a valuable support network.

“We encourage all young people – but especially young women – to explore how they can create connections and get into life.”

She suggested young people could grow their networks by volunteering within the local community, joining social groups at university or work, exploring clubs that align with hobbies, or reaching out to their local headspace centre.

Ms Palfrey also highlighted the role the local community can play in supporting its young people and their mental health.

“It’s also important that community groups continue creating safe and welcoming environments where young women feel confidence and valued.

“Providing opportunities for young women to explore their interests, share new ideas, participate in activities and connect with others benefits everyone.”