“Study finds high levels of loneliness among young people in the EU”
A recent study conducted by the Bertelsmann Stiftung has revealed that a significant number of young adults in the European Union are struggling with feelings of loneliness. The study, entitled “Loneliness of Young People Compared across Europe in 2024,” surveyed individuals aged 18 to 35 from seven EU countries using the European opinion research tool, eupinions.
The study found that 57% of young Europeans in this age group reported feeling moderately or strongly lonely. While loneliness has been a prevalent issue among young people since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the study highlighted notable differences between member states.
France was found to have the highest levels of loneliness among young people, with 40% reporting feeling at least moderately lonely and 23% reporting extreme loneliness. This means that nearly two-thirds of young people in France are affected by loneliness. On the other hand, young adults in the Netherlands were found to be the least affected by extreme loneliness.
Bertelsmann Stiftung youth expert Leander Berner emphasized the impact of loneliness on society and urged for a collective effort to address the issue. “Loneliness can reduce the feeling of belonging to society and become a social and political problem. We should tackle loneliness together as a society and not stigmatize those affected,” said Berner.
The study also highlighted the influence of education level on feelings of loneliness. Those with a lower level of education were found to experience higher levels of loneliness. This is attributed to factors such as better coping mechanisms for stress and greater access to social relationships among those with higher education.
Bertelsmann Stiftung youth expert Anja Langness emphasized the importance of including young people in political discussions and decision-making processes to effectively address loneliness. “Reducing loneliness among young people essentially requires incorporating their perspectives into political consultation processes systematically and in a binding way,” said Langness.
The study also provided recommendations for addressing extreme loneliness among young people, including collecting accurate data, providing support and resources, and promoting social and emotional skills. The Bertelsmann Stiftung hopes that these findings will inspire action to help reduce loneliness and improve well-being among young people in the EU.
For more information, please contact Dr. Anja Langness at +49 5241 81 81 169 or via email at anja.langness@bertelsmann-stiftung.de.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.