Social isolation and loneliness guide

Social isolation and loneliness are different but related concepts. They are often referred to interchangeably.

Social isolation is an objective state of having inadequate social relationships, both in terms of the quality and quantity of these interactions.

Loneliness is a subjective experience from a sense of not having the desired level or the right quality of social contacts or relationships. Loneliness is never desired and lessening these feelings can take a long time.

Social isolation can lead to loneliness and loneliness can lead to social isolation. Both may also occur at the same time.