Gallup: Young Men in U.S. Face Loneliness Crisis
A Gallup report has revealed a concerning trend among young men in the U.S. Under 35s are feeling 'a lot of loneliness' daily at a rate of 25%, significantly higher than the national average of 18% and any other demographic. This is a stark contrast to young women, who report loneliness at the same rate as the overall average.
The report shows that loneliness is strongly linked to poorer well-being. Those feeling lonely often report lower life satisfaction and less frequent smiling or laughing. Among 38 OECD nations, the U.S. is uniquely affected, with young men's loneliness notably higher than the national average. Gallup began tracking global loneliness in 2023, and early findings show concerning trends for American men, particularly the young.
The exact reasons for this disparity are not explicitly detailed, but it's recognized as a complex issue influenced by factors such as low income, social isolation, and mental health issues. In the U.S., 57% of young men report feeling stressed daily, compared to 48% of other adults, and 46% experience daily worry, compared to 37% of other adults. Recent studies show higher rates of 'deaths of despair' among young men than women, which may be related to persistent loneliness, worry, and stress.
The Gallup report highlights a pressing issue among young men in the U.S. Their higher rates of daily loneliness, stress, and worry, along with increased 'deaths of despair', warrant urgent attention and action. Further research is needed to understand and address these concerning trends.
