Psychological stress: Loneliness especially meets young women!

Psychological stress: Loneliness especially meets young women!

Often it is assumed that loneliness is primarily a problem of age. But the latest survey from the Rising study , which was launched at the Emden/Leer University, shows a different picture. Initiator Prof. Dr. Jutta Linders leads the examinations that started at the end of 2022. The first wave of survey is open that young people under the age of 30 in particular are affected by mental stress. A surprising turn resulted in the second wave: here suddenly more people in the middle age described similar problems. A clear connection was found between these burdens and the life situation of the respondents. Loneliness and lack of social contacts, which were identified as central factors for changes in mental health, were particularly difficult to

In the meantime, the third wave of survey of the Rising study is in full swing. By mid-September, all people from the region aged 18 and over have the opportunity to participate in the study via online questionnaire or to be requested in writing. Interested parties can report by email to rising@hs-emden-leer.de or by phone at 0152/0411 17 62 to request a questionnaire and a franked return.

loneliness and their effects

The effects of loneliness are well documented and affect different age groups. While older people are often the focus, the reality is that loneliness is also a big problem for young adults. An analysis from the Journal of Psychologcial Science refers to the connection between social relationships and mental health. People who suffer from loneliness are often confronted with serious challenges: depression, suicidal thoughts and even an increased risk of heart attacks are just a few examples. The demons that can conjure up loneliness, such as fears, aggressiveness and alcohol abuse.

To meet this challenge, various intervention options are tested. The recommended measures include social support and training that aim to promote social skills. Cognitive behavioral approaches are particularly effective that are intended to uncover and change unfavorable thoughts. The goal is to create a stronger feeling of belonging and to improve inner perception. These findings are among other things by the work of Cacioppo et al. supported in terms of isolation that have been increasingly examined in recent years.

A call to participate

With the current third-party wave of survey of the Rising study, a crucial step is taken to better understand and target the problems mentioned above. The call to participate is aimed at all citizens of the region, because everyone saves their contribution to relieving a widespread but often overlooked problem. The possibility of participation is uncomplicated and can take place online or in writing. By sharing your experiences, you contribute to developing optimal intervention options that announce the struggle for loneliness.

in a world in which social isolation becomes more and more a norm, people's commitment is more in demand than ever. Together we can counteract the feeling of loneliness and create a society in which everyone has their place and feels comfortable. So if you are curious or want to participate, you should not be afraid to take the first step.