The Loneliness Epidemic: Social Isolation and Its Impact on Men's Health

Loneliness and social isolation have increasingly been recognised as major public health issues. While everyone can experience loneliness, men are often disproportionately affected by social isolation because of gender norms discouraging emotional vulnerability or help-seeking. This article looks at how loneliness affects men’s physical and mental health, presents statistical evidence, and suggests how we can respond – including what B8TS is doing to help.

 Scope and Statistics

· In England (Health Survey for England 2021), 20% of adults said they felt lonely at least some of the time, with men slightly less likely than women to report loneliness, but still significantly affected.

· Also, in that survey, men (32%) were more likely than women (22%) to say they "never felt lonely". However, chronic loneliness (feeling lonely often or always) was similar between men (about 5%) and women (6%).

· Loneliness increases risk of early mortality by around 26% compared to those who are not lonely.

· Social isolation and loneliness are associated with elevated risks of cardiovascular disease, higher blood pressure, poorer sleep quality, and increased psychological distress such as depression and anxiety.

Health Consequences

Mental Health Outcomes

· Loneliness is strongly linked to depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation. People experiencing chronic loneliness are far more likely to report these issues than those with frequent social connection.

Physical Health Outcomes

· Increased risk of cardiovascular disease: physiological stress, inflammation, elevated blood pressure are more common among those isolated.

· Sleep disruption: loneliness is associated with poor sleep quality and dissatisfaction with sleep.

· Mortality: chronic loneliness correlates with increased risk of death from various causes, including heart disease.

Why Men Are Especially Vulnerable

· Gender norms: societal expectations that men should be self-reliant, not show vulnerability, and suppress emotions. This limits opportunities to share, connect, or ask for help.

· Work & life pressures: long hours, focus on career, perhaps less time for friendships or family. Men may move/stay in roles that isolate socially (e.g. remote work, commuting).

· Less likely to seek mental health or social support: studies show men underutilise mental health services. Loneliness may be internalised rather than expressed, meaning the problem remains hidden.

B8TS’s Role in Combating Loneliness

· Facilitating Men’s Circles where men of diverse backgrounds meet regularly to share experiences, express emotions, and build connection.

· Hosting events and social/fitness gatherings that combine mental wellness with physical activity, providing natural opportunities for men to connect.

· Digital workshops and peer support groups for those who may not access in-person gatherings easily.

· Awareness campaigns to highlight that loneliness is not weakness but a human issue and that seeking connection is courageous.

Conclusion

Loneliness is not a small or fringe issue but one of huge scope and deep impact, particularly for men. Overcoming it requires cultural change, accessible support, and building connection systems.