That the various lockdowns introduced to curb the spread of Covid-19 played a role in loneliness during the pandemic seems beyond doubt. Nonetheless, research from the University of York reveals that the picture is not quite as straightforward as we might think.

Indeed, while the loneliness of lockdown was undoubtedly something that was problematic for many, it was also something that some people quite enjoyed. The researchers examined lockdown stories from 70 volunteers aged between 17 and 73 to try and understand the different forms of lockdown loneliness.

Not one size fits all

The results highlight that while there has been much talk of a “loneliness epidemic”, the reality is that the complexity of the matter means that there is unlikely to be a “one size fits all” solution.

“One of the most striking findings of our study was how different people are, with individuals experiencing the same situations as hell or bliss,” the researchers explain. “Lockdown was an extraordinary event and presented a fascinating opportunity to explore how people of all ages experience loneliness.”

The researchers explain that pre-Covid there was a lot of emphasis on the older population and loneliness was affecting them. Now, however, there is a greater appreciation for how other demographics are also at risk.

Forms of loneliness

The researchers were able to identify three distinct forms of loneliness from the respondents:

• Social loneliness, which occurs due to a lack of contact with family and friends
• Emotional loneliness, which is due to a lack of much closer relationships
• Existential loneliness, which is where people feel distinctly separate from others

“Existential loneliness is often brought on by contemplation of death or dying, which likely explains why many people experienced it during the pandemic,” the researchers explain. “This is an interesting type of loneliness because there is no obvious way—such as providing opportunities to socialize—to help people who are experiencing it.”

They hope that the pandemic has shone a fresh light on loneliness, and that there work has helped to contribute to a growing appreciation of the nuances and individual perspectives on the matter so that it can be properly addressed.

“It seems important to identify strategies for coping with being alone—maybe even benefiting from it sometimes—and to consider how we can help diverse individuals to learn and use such strategies,” they conclude. “There might be something we can learn from people who enjoy solitude that could help the increasing number of people who suffer a great deal from loneliness.”