Why more Americans are feeling lonely and what you can do about it
[Allina Health Newsroom, October 13, 2026]
Social isolation can happen before a person realizes it, leaving them with a persistent sense of loneliness.
David Nathan, PsyD, LP, a psychologist with Allina Health, says a recent study found that 42% of Americans report feeling lonely or not having any close friends. That's a big difference from 1990, when less than 3% of Americans reported feeling lonely.
Dr. Nathan says two factors are contributing to this increased sense of loneliness: the internet and working from home. While both add convenience to people's lives, they also make it unnecessary to go out and practice social skills. Watch Dr. Nathan's interview to hear his suggestions for ways to combat loneliness.
David Nathan, PsyD, LP, a psychologist with Allina Health, says a recent study found that 42% of Americans report feeling lonely or not having any close friends. That's a big difference from 1990, when less than 3% of Americans reported feeling lonely.
Dr. Nathan says two factors are contributing to this increased sense of loneliness: the internet and working from home. While both add convenience to people's lives, they also make it unnecessary to go out and practice social skills. Watch Dr. Nathan's interview to hear his suggestions for ways to combat loneliness.
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