Loneliness is a deeply painful feeling, associated with shame and disconnection, and increasingly linked to poor mental and physical health according to recent research. The World Health Organization has even established a Commission on Social Connection to address this issue as a global public health priority.
Two recent articles, linked below, cite a research study by insurance provider Cigna on loneliness. The study found that 52% of Americans reported feeling alone sometimes or always, with the percentage rising to 65% among parents.
NY Times - Why Is the Loneliness Epidemic So Hard to Cure?
WSJ - Parenting Is Hazardous to Your Health, the Surgeon General Warns