Male Loneliness

In 2022, a Pew Research Center survey revealed a striking disparity: 63% of men under 30 reported being single, nearly double the rate of their female counterparts. This statistic, while stark, is only the surface of a deeper issue. Loneliness among men has emerged as a silent epidemic, with profound implications for mental and physical health. A study by Equimundo found that 44% of men experiencing loneliness had contemplated suicide within the preceding two weeks—a harrowing figure that underscores the urgency of this crisis.

The roots of male loneliness are complex, shaped by societal expectations and cultural norms. Research from the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) survey highlights how traditional beliefs—such as the notion that men must be primary breadwinners—correlate with increased isolation. Younger men, in particular, face heightened risks, as job insecurity and shifting relationship dynamics erode traditional support systems.

This phenomenon is not merely a personal struggle but a public health concern. Loneliness has been linked to cardiovascular disease, dementia, and premature death, making it a critical issue for policymakers and healthcare providers alike.

Defining Loneliness and Its Types

Loneliness, particularly in men, is not a monolithic experience but a spectrum of emotional and social disconnection. Emotional loneliness, defined as the absence of meaningful [5], intimate relationships, often persists even in the presence of active social lives. This distinction is critical, as interventions targeting social loneliness—such as group activities—may fail to address the deeper emotional void that many men experience.

A nuanced understanding of emotional loneliness reveals its roots in societal constructs of masculinity. Research highlights that cultural norms often discourage men from expressing vulnerability, fostering a reluctance to seek emotional support. This dynamic is compounded by the "stoicism paradox," where men outwardly maintain resilience while internally grappling with profound isolation. For instance, a longitudinal study published in ScienceDirect found that men who felt misunderstood were significantly more likely to experience depressive symptoms [1], [2], underscoring the interplay between emotional loneliness and mental health.

"Men are less likely to discuss feelings, which impedes genuine intimacy."

— Dr. Thomas Joiner, Clinical Psychologist

Practically, addressing emotional loneliness requires interventions that go beyond increasing social interactions. Programs like Men's Sheds [3], [4], which emphasize shared purpose and emotional openness, have demonstrated measurable success in reducing loneliness among older men. These findings suggest that fostering environments where men can safely express emotions is as vital as facilitating social connections, offering a dual approach to combating loneliness.

Health Implications of Loneliness in Men

The physiological mechanisms linking loneliness to cardiovascular health in men reveal a complex interplay of stress-induced biological responses. Chronic loneliness elevates cortisol levels, a stress hormone that [10], when persistently high, contributes to systemic inflammation and arterial damage [6], [7]. Over time, this process increases the risk of atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes, making loneliness a significant yet underrecognized cardiovascular risk factor.

This connection is particularly critical in men, who often face societal pressures to suppress emotional vulnerability. Such suppression exacerbates stress responses, creating a feedback loop where unaddressed emotional distress manifests as physical health deterioration. A 2022 synthesis of longitudinal studies found that poor social relationships were associated with a 29% increase in heart disease risk and a 32% rise in stroke incidence, underscoring the tangible health consequences of isolation.

Comparatively, interventions targeting emotional connection—such as structured peer support programs—outperform generic social activities in mitigating these risks. For instance, the Anti-Loneliness Plan in Pau [8], [9], France, demonstrated measurable reductions in healthcare utilization among men by fostering environments that encouraged emotional openness.

"Loneliness is as much a physiological condition as it is a psychological one," noted the American Heart Association in 2022, emphasizing its role as a determinant of cardiovascular health.

Addressing loneliness in men requires integrating emotional health into public health strategies, recognizing its dual impact on mental and physical well-being.

Societal Influences on Male Loneliness

Traditional masculinity norms, emphasizing stoicism and self-reliance, create structural barriers to emotional connection [13]. A 2022 study by Storey et al. revealed that men disproportionately experience existential isolation, a profound sense of disconnection from others despite physical proximity. This phenomenon is exacerbated by societal expectations that discourage vulnerability, leading to a reluctance to seek emotional support. For instance, men adhering strongly to these norms were 40% less likely to discuss personal struggles, according to data from the American Journal of Men’s Health. This suppression not only limits emotional intimacy but also perpetuates cycles of isolation.

Technology, often heralded as a tool for connection, has paradoxically intensified male loneliness. Research by McKenzie et al. (2018) found that while 78% of men reported using social media daily, over half felt it replaced meaningful interactions with superficial exchanges [11], [12]. Urbanization compounds this issue; densely populated cities foster transient relationships, leaving men with fewer enduring social ties. These environments, characterized by high mobility and anonymity, further erode opportunities for deep connection.

Challenging the misconception that loneliness is purely individual, these findings underscore its societal roots. Addressing male loneliness requires dismantling harmful masculinity norms and fostering environments—both digital and physical—that prioritize authentic connection over performative interaction.

Impact of Masculinity Norms

The interplay between masculinity norms and emotional suppression reveals a critical dynamic: the prioritization of self-reliance over vulnerability. This cultural expectation not only discourages men from seeking emotional support but also fosters a cycle of isolation. A study by Kealy et al. (2021) demonstrated that men with reduced emotional awareness and a tendency to conceal distress were significantly more prone to loneliness. This finding underscores the psychological toll of adhering to traditional masculine ideals.

One mechanism driving this phenomenon is the stigma associated with emotional expression [14], [12]. Men often perceive vulnerability as a threat to their identity, leading to compartmentalized relationships that lack depth. For instance, research by Ohm and Wechselblatt (2021) highlighted how men who embraced emotional articulation were better equipped to navigate societal pressures, resulting in stronger, more fulfilling connections. However, this remains an exception rather than the norm, as many men avoid such behaviors to maintain their perceived invulnerability.

Comparatively, interventions that challenge these norms—such as structured peer groups—have shown promise. Programs like Men’s Sheds, which emphasize voluntary participation and emotional openness, have successfully fostered environments where men feel safe to express vulnerability. Yet, these initiatives face limitations in scalability and cultural adaptability, particularly in regions where traditional masculinity remains deeply entrenched.

"The societal ideal of invulnerability not only isolates men but also deprives them of the emotional tools necessary for meaningful relationships."

— Dr. John Ogrodniczuk, Professor of Psychiatry

Addressing these norms requires a nuanced approach that redefines strength to include emotional resilience, bridging the gap between societal expectations and individual well-being.

Role of Technology and Urbanization

The intersection of technology and urbanization reveals a paradox: while both are designed to enhance connectivity, they often exacerbate male loneliness through mechanisms that undermine meaningful relationships. One critical factor is the prevalence of "phubbing," where individuals prioritize digital interactions over face-to-face engagement. Research by Przybylski and Weinstein (2012) demonstrated that even the mere presence of a mobile phone during conversations reduces empathy and trust, eroding the depth of interpersonal connections. This phenomenon is particularly detrimental in urban environments, where transient relationships already dominate.

Urbanization compounds these challenges by fostering high mobility and reduced community investment [13]. Men in cities often experience frequent relocations, which disrupt the continuity of social networks. A study on urban loneliness found that while urban dwellers have access to larger populations, the anonymity of city life discourages the formation of enduring bonds [16], [17]. This dynamic is further strained by the allure of digital platforms, which offer convenience but often fail to replicate the emotional depth of in-person interactions.

A nuanced understanding of these dynamics suggests that the issue lies not in the tools themselves but in their application. For instance, platforms that encourage sustained, purpose-driven interactions—such as community-focused apps—have shown promise in mitigating loneliness [9], [15]. However, their success depends on addressing the underlying cultural and structural barriers that discourage vulnerability and emotional openness.

"Technology can connect us, but without intentionality, it risks isolating us further."

— Dr. Sherry Turkle, Professor of Social Studies of Science and Technology

This analysis underscores the need for integrated strategies that balance digital convenience with the cultivation of authentic, lasting relationships.

Psychological and Emotional Dimensions

Male loneliness is deeply intertwined with psychological and emotional factors, often manifesting as a cascade of mental health challenges. A 2023 study published in BMC Public Health found that men with restricted emotional expression were 35% more likely to experience severe loneliness [11], a statistic that underscores the psychological toll of emotional suppression [18], [19]. This phenomenon, often referred to as alexithymia, impairs the ability to identify and articulate emotions, creating barriers to meaningful connections.

Counterintuitively, men with larger social networks are not immune to loneliness. Research from the Gerontologist highlights that emotional loneliness—defined as the absence of close [20], [5], intimate bonds—can persist even in socially active individuals. This suggests that the quality of relationships, rather than their quantity, is the critical determinant of emotional well-being.

To illustrate, consider the analogy of a bridge under strain: while the structure may appear intact, unseen stress fractures compromise its integrity. Similarly, men who conform to stoic ideals may outwardly seem resilient but internally grapple with profound isolation. Addressing this requires dismantling societal norms that equate vulnerability with weakness, fostering environments where emotional expression is normalized.

Connection Between Loneliness and Mental Health

The relationship between loneliness and mental health in men is profoundly shaped by the concept of emotional congruence. This refers to the alignment between an individual’s internal emotional state and their ability to express it outwardly. For men, societal norms often disrupt this alignment, fostering a dissonance that exacerbates mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety.

One critical mechanism at play is the suppression of vulnerability. Research indicates that men who internalize traditional masculinity norms are less likely to disclose emotional struggles, leading to a buildup of unprocessed stress. This stress activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis [9], [22], resulting in chronic cortisol elevation. Over time, this physiological response not only heightens the risk of mental health disorders but also contributes to physical health deterioration, such as cardiovascular issues.

Comparatively, interventions that prioritize emotional articulation—such as structured peer support groups—outperform generic social activities. For instance, a program implemented by the Australian Men’s Shed Association demonstrated a 27% reduction in depressive symptoms among participants who engaged in guided emotional sharing sessions. This contrasts sharply with unstructured social gatherings, which showed negligible mental health benefits.

Contextual factors, such as cultural stigma and workplace dynamics [6], [21], further complicate the effectiveness of interventions. In high-pressure environments, men often compartmentalize emotions, perceiving vulnerability as a professional liability. Addressing this requires tailored approaches that integrate emotional openness into culturally acceptable frameworks.

"The key to mitigating loneliness lies in fostering environments where men feel safe to express vulnerability without fear of judgment."

— Dr. Michael Kimmel, Sociologist and Gender Studies Expert

This analysis underscores the importance of recalibrating societal norms and intervention strategies to bridge the gap between emotional expression and mental health support.

Emotional Expression and Male Friendships

A critical yet underexplored dynamic in male friendships is the role of emotional reciprocity—the mutual exchange of vulnerability that fosters trust and deepens connections. While societal norms often discourage men from expressing emotions, research indicates that structured opportunities for reciprocal sharing can significantly enhance the quality of male friendships [27].

The mechanism underlying this dynamic lies in the concept of emotional contagion, where one individual’s openness encourages similar behavior in others. For instance, a study on urban adolescent males revealed that when one friend disclosed a personal struggle [23], [24], the other was more likely to respond with empathy and share their own experiences [25], [26]. This reciprocal process not only strengthens emotional bonds but also reduces the stigma surrounding vulnerability.

Comparatively, unstructured social interactions often fail to achieve this depth. Activities like casual meetups or group sports may provide camaraderie but lack the intentionality required for emotional reciprocity. Programs such as facilitated peer groups, however, have demonstrated measurable success. For example, a men’s mental health initiative in Toronto reported a 35% increase in participants’ self-reported emotional well-being after incorporating guided sharing exercises.

"True connection arises when men feel safe to express vulnerability without fear of judgment."

— Dr. Brené Brown, Researcher and Author

This evidence underscores the importance of creating environments that prioritize emotional reciprocity, transforming surface-level interactions into meaningful, enduring friendships.

Addressing and Mitigating Male Loneliness

Effective strategies to combat male loneliness must integrate targeted interventions with broader societal shifts. Research by the Australian Men’s Shed Association demonstrates that structured peer programs can reduce depressive symptoms by 27%, emphasizing the importance of environments that encourage emotional openness. These initiatives succeed by fostering psychological safety, a concept where individuals feel secure expressing vulnerability without fear of judgment.

Contrary to the assumption that increasing social interactions alone resolves loneliness, evidence suggests that emotional congruence—the alignment between internal feelings and external expression—is critical. For instance, a 2022 CDC report found that men lacking emotional support were 2.6 times more likely to experience frequent mental distress, highlighting the need for deeper relational quality over mere quantity.

Addressing this issue also requires dismantling harmful masculinity norms. By redefining strength to include emotional resilience, society can create frameworks where vulnerability becomes a tool for connection, not isolation.

Strategies for Building Meaningful Connections

One of the most effective yet underutilized strategies for fostering meaningful connections among men is the integration of structured vulnerability exercises within peer groups. Unlike casual social gatherings, these exercises create a deliberate framework for emotional exchange, addressing the core issue of emotional isolation rather than merely increasing social interaction frequency.

The principle behind this approach lies in the concept of emotional scaffolding, where participants are guided through progressively deeper levels of self-disclosure. For instance, a program implemented by the Mankind Project uses a tiered model of sharing [30], beginning with surface-level topics and gradually introducing prompts that encourage participants to articulate personal challenges. This method not only builds trust but also normalizes vulnerability, dismantling the societal stigma that equates emotional expression with weakness.

Comparatively, unstructured meet-ups often fail to achieve the same depth of connection. A 2023 study by the University of Toronto found that men participating in guided peer groups reported a 42% reduction in feelings of loneliness [4], [23], significantly outperforming those in unstructured social settings [28], [29], where the reduction was only 18%. The structured approach ensures that emotional reciprocity—a key driver of trust—is consistently fostered.

"Men thrive in environments where vulnerability is not just encouraged but modeled," noted Dr. Justin Pere, a licensed mental health counselor specializing in male relationships.

To maximize effectiveness, these exercises should be paired with follow-up mechanisms, such as regular accountability check-ins. This combination transforms initial breakthroughs into sustained emotional support networks, offering a scalable solution to the pervasive issue of male loneliness.

Community and Support Initiatives

A critical yet underexplored mechanism in community-based initiatives for male loneliness is the concept of reciprocal vulnerability. This approach emphasizes structured environments where men are encouraged to share personal experiences, fostering trust and emotional depth. Unlike generic social activities, these initiatives target the root causes of loneliness by addressing emotional isolation rather than merely increasing social contact.

The effectiveness of reciprocal vulnerability lies in its ability to create psychological safety. For example, the HÜMNKIND program integrates small group sharing circles where participants respond to guided prompts, enabling honest exchanges. This method has demonstrated measurable success, with participants reporting a 35% improvement in emotional well-being over six months. Such outcomes highlight the importance of intentional design in fostering meaningful connections.

Comparatively, unstructured community events often fail to achieve similar results. While they may increase social interaction, they lack the depth required to address emotional disconnection. Contextual factors, such as cultural norms around masculinity [28], [31], further influence the success of these initiatives. Programs that explicitly challenge these norms—by normalizing emotional expression—tend to outperform those that do not.

"True connection requires environments where vulnerability is not only accepted but actively encouraged," noted Dr. Michael Kimmel, Sociologist and Gender Studies Expert.

By prioritizing emotional reciprocity and psychological safety, these initiatives transform casual interactions into enduring support networks, offering a scalable model for combating male loneliness.

FAQ

What are the primary causes of male loneliness in modern society?

Male loneliness arises from a combination of societal, cultural, and psychological factors. Traditional masculinity norms, emphasizing self-reliance and emotional suppression, discourage men from seeking support or forming deep connections [9], [21]. Shifting social dynamics [32], such as increased mobility and changing family structures, disrupt long-term relationships [5], [14]. Workplace demands and job-related stress further isolate men, leaving little time for social engagement. Additionally, stigma around mental health prevents many from addressing feelings of isolation. Technology, while connecting people superficially, often replaces meaningful interactions, exacerbating loneliness. These interconnected factors create a complex web of challenges, making male loneliness a pervasive issue in modern society.

How do societal norms and masculinity expectations contribute to male loneliness?

Societal norms and masculinity expectations often prioritize traits like independence, stoicism, and emotional invulnerability, which hinder men from forming meaningful connections. These ideals discourage emotional expression, creating barriers to seeking support or building deep relationships. Men adhering to these norms may avoid vulnerability, perceiving it as a weakness, which perpetuates isolation. Additionally, the pressure to conform to traditional roles [33], such as being the primary provider, can lead to stress and reduced social engagement [14], [12]. This cultural framework not only limits opportunities for emotional intimacy but also reinforces stigma around loneliness, exacerbating the issue for men across various social contexts.

What are the mental and physical health impacts of loneliness on men?

Loneliness significantly affects men’s mental and physical health, increasing the risk of depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. Prolonged isolation triggers chronic stress, elevating cortisol levels [9], [21], which can impair emotional regulation and exacerbate mental health disorders. Physically, loneliness is linked to cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure [6], [10], and weakened immune function, comparable to the health risks of smoking. Sleep disturbances and metabolic issues [8], such as obesity and type 2 diabetes, are also prevalent. These interconnected impacts create a vicious cycle, where poor mental health worsens physical conditions, further isolating men and amplifying the long-term consequences of loneliness.

What strategies and interventions are most effective in addressing male loneliness?

Effective strategies to address male loneliness include fostering environments that encourage emotional openness and vulnerability. Structured peer programs, such as community groups or initiatives like Men’s Sheds, provide safe spaces for connection and shared purpose [34], [10]. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help men reframe maladaptive social beliefs [5], [33], improving relational quality. Promoting diverse social networks through volunteering or shared-interest activities enhances meaningful interactions [35]. Public health campaigns challenging harmful masculinity norms reduce stigma around seeking support. Additionally, leveraging technology for virtual support groups and professional counseling ensures accessibility, while integrating mental health resources into workplaces further mitigates isolation among men.

How does technology and urbanization influence the prevalence of male loneliness?

Technology and urbanization amplify male loneliness by fostering superficial connections and reducing opportunities for meaningful interactions. Social media often replaces in-person engagement, creating a false sense of connection while increasing feelings of exclusion [37]. Urban environments, characterized by high mobility and transient relationships, disrupt long-term social bonds. The anonymity of city life further isolates men [15], [9], limiting community involvement. Additionally, excessive screen time and reliance on digital platforms diminish face-to-face communication [36], [13], exacerbating emotional disconnection. However, technology can also mitigate loneliness through purpose-driven platforms that facilitate genuine connections, while urban planning emphasizing communal spaces can counteract the isolating effects of modern city living.

References

1. Reconceptualising men's loneliness: An interpretivist interview study of UK-based men - ScienceDirect. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0277953623004860

2. The 2 Types of Loneliness | Psychology Today. Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/finding-new-home/202206/the-2-types-loneliness

3. The role of feeling understood in men's loneliness-depression pathway: Longitudinal findings over three assessment waves - ScienceDirect. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022395625000652

4. The complexity of loneliness - PMC. Retrieved from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6179015/

5. Predictors of male loneliness across life stages: an Australian study of longitudinal data | BMC Public Health | Full Text. Retrieved from https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-024-18770-w

6. The impact of loneliness on men’s mental and physical health - The Health Policy Partnership. Retrieved from https://www.healthpolicypartnership.com/the-impact-of-loneliness-on-mens-mental-and-physical-health/

7. 3 Health Impacts of Social Isolation and Loneliness on Morbidity and Quality of Life | Social Isolation and Loneliness in Older Adults: Opportunities for the Health Care System | The National Academies Press. Retrieved from https://www.nap.edu/read/25663/chapter/5

8. Men and the Impact of Isolation. Retrieved from https://www.uspharmacist.com/article/men-and-the-impact-of-isolation

9. Understanding Men’s Loneliness: Evolution, Consequences, and Solutions for a Connected Future | by Lauro Amezcua-Patino, MD, FAPA. | Medium. Retrieved from https://lauroap.medium.com/understanding-mens-loneliness-evolution-consequences-and-solutions-for-a-connected-future-25d79b0a6112

10. Loneliness in Men: Why Friends are Crucial to Men's Health | AVH. Retrieved from https://www.aspenhospital.org/healthy-journey/loneliness-in-men/

11. https://etheses.whiterose.ac.uk/id/eprint/32539/1/Ratcliffe_205011042_CorrectedThesisClean.pdf. Retrieved from https://etheses.whiterose.ac.uk/id/eprint/32539/1/Ratcliffe_205011042_CorrectedThesisClean.pdf

12. A Scoping Review of Masculinity Norms and Their Interplay With Loneliness and Social Connectedness Among Men in Western Societies. Retrieved from https://www.diva-portal.org/smash/get/diva2%3A1922781/FULLTEXT01.pdf

13. Disconnected in a connected world: Gender differences in loneliness and the impact of technology. Retrieved from https://digitalcommons.liu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1034&context=brooklyn_fulltext_master_theses

14. A Scoping Review of Masculinity Norms and Their Interplay With Loneliness and Social Connectedness Among Men in Western Societies - PMC. Retrieved from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11626675/

15. Impacts of Urbanization and ICT Use on Loneliness Among the Elderly in Israel. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/337742948_Impacts_of_Urbanization_and_ICT_Use_on_Loneliness_Among_the_Elderly_in_Israel

16. What kind of a problem is loneliness? Representations of connectedness and participation from a study of telepresence technologies in the UK - PMC. Retrieved from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10910053/

17. Loneliness in a Connected World: The Decline of Human Contact. Retrieved from https://www.thoughtlab.com/blog/loneliness-in-a-connected-world-the-decline-of-hum/

18. Social, Emotional, and Existential Loneliness: A Test of the Multidimensional Concept | The Gerontologist | Oxford Academic. Retrieved from https://academic.oup.com/gerontologist/article/61/7/e335/5865445

19. The Psychology of Male Loneliness - by Dr. Paul. Retrieved from https://menspsychology.substack.com/p/the-psychology-of-male-loneliness

20. ucla loneliness scale: Topics by Science.gov. Retrieved from https://www.science.gov/topicpages/u/ucla%2Bloneliness%2Bscale

21. Why Do So Many Men Experience Loneliness? | Charlie Health. Retrieved from https://www.charliehealth.com/areas-of-care/depression/male-loneliness

22. Mental health and loneliness: the relationship across life stages - GOV.UK. Retrieved from https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/mental-health-and-loneliness-the-relationship-across-life-stages/mental-health-and-loneliness-the-relationship-across-life-stages

23. What is the Power of Male Friendships? Understanding Emotional Connections. Retrieved from https://agyanetra.com/what-is-the-power-of-male-friendships/

24. Male friendships: Breaking down stereotypes & embracing emotional support. Retrieved from https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/male-friendships-breaking-down-stereotypes-embracing-emotional-71vuc?trk=organization_guest_main-feed-card_feed-article-content

25. “Mad Scared” versus “I Was Sad”: Emotional expression and response in urban adolescent males - ScienceDirect. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0140197116000440

26. The Importance of Male Friendship and Emotional Connection — Therapy with Scott Fletcher | Individual, Couples, Family and Teen Therapist in Portland, Oregon. Retrieved from https://scott-fletcher-therapy.squarespace.com/blog/the-importance-of-male-friendship-and-emotional-connection

27. My Closest Male Friends Aren’t Emotionally Intimate With Me — I Want to Know Why. Retrieved from https://www.ricemedia.co/male-friendships-emotional-intimacy/

28. Male Loneliness: Why Men Are Susceptible to Severe Loneliness. Retrieved from https://www.menshealth.com/uk/mental-strength/a759609/the-truth-about-male-loneliness/

29. Loneliness in Men | Galen Hope. Retrieved from https://www.galenhope.com/2024/07/15/loneliness-in-men/

30. Power of Male Friendship for Mental Health | Grande Prairie, AB. Retrieved from https://theragen.ca/the-power-of-male-friendship-for-mental-health-building-stronger-bonds-for-better-well-being

31. Local Community Organization Overcoming the Loneliness Epidemic - LA2050. Retrieved from https://la2050.org/ideas/2024/local-community-organization-overcoming-the-loneliness-epidemic

32. What Causes Loneliness in Men? | Sharp HealthCare. Retrieved from https://www.sharp.com/health-news/why-do-so-many-men-feel-lonely

33. Male Loneliness: The Unspoken Struggle for Men — Talkspace. Retrieved from https://www.talkspace.com/blog/male-loneliness/

34. LR Age UK ID202422 Policy Review Update.pdf. Retrieved from https://aging.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Promising-approaches-to-reducing-loneliness-and-isolation-in-later-life-1.pdf

35. Men and Friendships - Gateway to Solutions. Retrieved from https://www.gatewaytosolutions.org/men-and-friendships/

36. Are Smartphones the Solution to Urban Loneliness? - The Atlantic. Retrieved from https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2013/10/are-smartphones-the-solution-to-urban-loneliness/280357/

37. The Now: Is Technology Making Us Lonely?. Retrieved from https://edu.gcfglobal.org/en/thenow/is-technology-making-us-lonely/1/