Experts question whether a “male loneliness epidemic” really exists

Around 60% say they have felt lonely, according to the TK Loneliness Report 2024.

While loneliness is a widespread human experience, growing attention has turned to what some call the “male loneliness epidemic.”

Not alone, but still lonely

Psychologist Dr. Manuel Peters explains to Esquire that loneliness is not simply being alone but feeling disconnected from meaningful relationships.

“You can be surrounded by people and still feel isolated,” he says.

The problem, he adds, is that humans have a deep, biological need for connection, and when that’s missing, it can become a serious emotional strain.

Why people feel lonely today

Modern life amplifies feelings of isolation.

Digital communication, remote work, and urban anonymity often replace deep, face-to-face interaction.

Overwhelmed by the pace of change

Many people are forming relationships later in life and living alone longer, leaving traditional support networks—like families and local communities—thinner than ever.

“Many are simply overwhelmed by the pace of change,” Dr. Peters says. “Old social structures have collapsed, and new ones haven’t fully replaced them.”

Where the “male loneliness epidemic” idea came from

The phrase “male loneliness epidemic” gained traction on TikTok and in the manosphere, a cluster of online communities centered around men’s issues.

The movement often blames social change and feminism for men’s isolation.

However, psychologists emphasize that the real causes are complex and not gender-exclusive—though men may experience loneliness differently due to cultural expectations and social habits.

Masculinity and the “strong man” myth

Dr. Peters points to the long-standing stereotype of the “strong, self-reliant man” as a key barrier to emotional connection.

From a young age, boys are often taught that showing feelings is weak.

“It makes it harder to build trust and close friendships later,” Peters says.

Activity-driven relationships

Male friendships often center around activities—like sports or drinking—rather than emotional sharing.

“This cultural factor plays a major role,” he adds. “The traditional image of masculinity is one-sided and incomplete.”

Are men lonelier than women?

Statistically, men and women experience loneliness at similar rates—but men tend to hide it more often.

The TK Loneliness Report found that only 22% of men ever talk about their loneliness, compared to nearly double that for women.

“Men feel lonely differently,” Peters explains. “They may have friendships, but often miss the feeling of being truly seen.”

As a result, male loneliness is more likely to go unnoticed and untreated.

Why loneliness can harm your health

Loneliness is not just emotional. It has physical consequences.

Long-term isolation is linked to sleep problems, heart disease, weakened immunity, and depression.

“Social integration affects health even more than diet or exercise,” Dr. Peters notes.

On a societal level, widespread loneliness can lead to radicalization and weaken social trust, as people lose their sense of belonging.

Breaking the cycle

Overcoming loneliness requires both personal effort and public awareness. Dr. Peters recommends:

• Reconnecting with existing friends or family
• Joining clubs, sports teams, or community groups
• Seeking therapy to rebuild self-esteem and social confidence

“Social skills can be learned and relearned,” Peters says. “The earlier, the better.”

He also calls for preventive education, beginning in schools, to teach children how to build and maintain healthy relationships.

The takeaway

Loneliness affects everyone—but men may be less equipped or encouraged to talk about it.

“Those affected are often invisible and silent,” says Dr. Peters.

“Loneliness is always harmful,” Peters concludes. “It must be fought—with empathy, awareness, and connection.”

This article is made and published by Camilla Jessen, which may have used AI in the preparation