A study has found that 50 percent of parents in the United Kingdom are suffering from severe loneliness. The experts are concerned that an ‘epidemic’ of loneliness may have a negative impact on families.
2,000 parents took part in the survey which was conducted by Action for Children.
They discovered that parents feel isolated from their friends and family. A further 21 percent of the participants admitted that they have felt lonely due to the pressure of their parental responsibilities.
Action for Children has expressed their concerns following these results. They are worried that the high level of loneliness may be having a negative effect on both adults and children around the United Kingdom.
As well as parents, many children revealed that they often feel lonely either “some or all of the time.”
61 percent of parents shared that they are concerned about their children’s wellbeing.
Many people admitted that becoming a parent for the first time had a negative impact on their social lives, especially when it came to maintaining friendships.
According to Huffington Post, the chief of Action for Children stated that loneliness effects everyone and anyone from toddlers to young men, “We know from our services across the UK the devastating impact loneliness can have on the lives of children, young people, and families.”
He encouraged people to open up about their issues, reaching out to friends and family is the hardest, but the best step to make.
He shared, “Now is the time to raise the volume on this issue and ensure much-needed research, funding, and support is put in place.”
As a community, we need to work together to find a solution for the nationwide problem. He added, “Whilst part of the solution lies with funders and policymakers, there is a role for every one of us in addressing this epidemic in our communities.”
Everyone experiences bouts of loneliness from time to time, unfortunately, it’s part of life. It’s a normal human emotion, so it’s important to remember that everyone has experienced it before, so there is nothing to be ashamed of.
There are numerous things that you can do to help combat loneliness.
Recognising the emotion is one of the first steps you should take. Bottling up your feelings can make you feel even worse than before.
Researchers have found that feelings of loneliness may stem from a lack of self-confidence. They recommend talking to a loved one or to a counselor if you’re feeling isolated.
For more information on how to cope with loneliness after having your first child, click here.
