Over Half of Young Europeans Report Feeling Lonely, Study Finds

A new Bertelsmann Stiftung study highlights persistent loneliness among 18-35 year-olds across Europe, with calls for targeted interventions.

57% of young Europeans aged 18-35 report moderate to severe loneliness, with the highest rates in France at 63% and 51% in Germany.
The study indicates that loneliness among young people has remained high since the COVID-19 pandemic and is more prevalent than in older age groups.
Individuals with lower educational attainment are disproportionately affected, as they face fewer opportunities to manage stress and maintain social connections.
Experts warn that widespread loneliness can erode societal belonging and pose long-term political and social challenges.
The Bertelsmann Stiftung calls for targeted measures to address youth loneliness, emphasizing the need for age-specific policies and preventive strategies to foster social and emotional skills.