Loneliness is something most of us experience at some point in life—but it’s still something many people find hard to talk about.

You can feel lonely in a crowded room, in a busy workplace, or even surrounded by people you care about. That’s because loneliness isn’t simply about being alone; it’s about feeling disconnected, unseen, or lacking the kind of connection we need.

In the UK, evidence shows just how common this is. Recent research commissioned by Marmalade Trust found that 82% of UK adults have experienced loneliness at some point, yet 61% of those people have never told anyone they feel lonely.  That silence matters—because loneliness often grows in silence.

And while loneliness itself is a normal human emotion, it can affect our wellbeing if it becomes prolonged. According to NHS and UK government evidence reviews, ongoing loneliness is linked with poorer mental wellbeing and can increase the risk of anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life.

The good news? Loneliness is not a life sentence—and small actions can make a real difference.

Sometimes loneliness appears during major life changes: moving house, becoming a parent, retiring, bereavement, starting university, remote working, or simply feeling out of sync with others.

In England, around 3.1 million adults reported feeling lonely “often or always” in the latest Community Life Survey.  That’s millions of people quietly feeling what many assume they’re feeling alone.

One of the hardest parts of loneliness is that it can create a cycle. The longer we feel disconnected, the easier it becomes to withdraw. We cancel plans. We stop replying to messages. We tell ourselves people are too busy—or that we’d be a burden. Over time, that isolation can deepen the feeling we were trying to avoid.

Breaking that cycle doesn’t require a huge gesture. Often it starts with one small step:

• texting a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while,
• saying yes to a coffee invitation,
• joining a local class or walking group,
• checking in on a neighbour,
• or simply admitting: “I’ve been feeling a bit lonely lately.”

That last one can feel especially difficult—but it can also be powerful. Naming loneliness helps reduce its hold.

This is why Loneliness Awareness Week matters so much. The campaign encourages honest conversations about loneliness and reminds us that talking about it helps remove the stigma.

This year marks another important moment to reflect: how can we make connection more intentional in our own lives?

Maybe that means reaching out to someone who’s gone quiet.
Maybe it means accepting support yourself.
Maybe it means recognising that loneliness can affect anyone—regardless of age, background, or circumstance.

A simple “How are you, really?” can open a door.

So this week, consider asking yourself:
When do I feel most lonely?
Is it at weekends? In the evenings? During transitions? After scrolling social media?

And then ask:
What helps me feel more connected?
A walk with someone? A phone call? Volunteering? Community?

Awareness is where change begins.

If loneliness has been part of your story lately, you are far from alone—and support is available.

To learn more or get involved, visit Loneliness Awareness Week.

Let’s keep the conversation going—because connection starts with talking.