Despite being more connected than ever, we're pretty lonely right now. So lonely, in fact, that in 2023, the World Health Organization declared the 'loneliness epidemic' a global public health concern.
Roughly a quarter of the world reported feeling lonely, with young people making up the brunt of that figure.
In other words, we're facing a crisis.
So, what's the solution? Social clubs are springing up in cities everywhere, Japan has pushed support groups and the Dutch have found success in flatshares that mix elderly and younger residents.
But while these measures have all been shown to help, they're a drop in a rather big, lonely ocean. Rates of loneliness are increasing and a global solution isn't easy to come by... Or is it? Tech companies are jumping at the opportunity to fight loneliness with all sorts of hard- and software. But while they've gotten off to a surprisingly good start, the tech has a long way to go if it wants to actually cure loneliness.
LONELINESS (OVER)SIMPLIFIED
In its rush to design a solution, big tech has over-simplified its idea of loneliness, conflating it with a need for conversation.
But that's not necessarily big tech's fault; few of us understand loneliness fully.
This story is from the October 2024 edition of BBC Science Focus.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the October 2024 edition of BBC Science Focus.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Animals have culture like us, but will share theirs with other species
New research suggests that cultural practices in the animal kingdom can develop across species boundaries
Scientists identify a better predictor for heart health than BMI
You want this fat in your steak, but not in your muscles
Asteroid sample reveals life's origin
A 'briny broth' may unlock the secrets of life on Earth... and further afield
DETECTING DEMENTIA
New science is uncovering how Alzheimer's could be detected decades before symptoms strike. Could it give us the head start needed to fight back and defeat the disease?
A dopamine detox does little for your brain chemistry
Swearing off social media may well improve your mood, but probably not because it resets your dopamine levels
Polyphenols: The key to a healthier, longer life or just another health food fad?
A special type of nutrient that's only found in fruit and veg could be more important to your health than vitamins and minerals
The strange daily routines of successful people won't bring you fame and fortune
Punishing 2am workouts and fistfuls of supplements unlikely to help you get ahead in life.
ALL THE LIGHT - WE CAN SEE
New Jersey is the new Roswell – or so it might seem after a swarm of bright lights, glowing orange-red orbs and unidentified flying objects filled the skies throughout December 2024.
HARD TO STOMACH
Despite being a common condition, the cause of irritable bowel syndrome has proven tricky to find. Now researchers are beginning to understand what's going on in our guts... and the best ways to soothe them
How do you treat perimenopause symptoms?
Both hormonal and natural treatments can be used to treat disruptive perimenopause symptoms. But which ones are right for you?
