Loneliness and social isolation

Key findings

• 1 in 4 of survey respondents indicated that they feel lonely and socially isolated ‘Always’ or ‘Often’
• Almost 70% agreed that loneliness and social isolation are issues in the Armed Forces community
• Moving to a new area was the most common cause of social isolation amongst survey respondents
• Exiting the Armed Forces was the most common cause of both loneliness and social isolation

Findings from this research suggest that some elements of Forces lifestyle can increase vulnerability to loneliness and social isolation. These include:

• Increased volume of transitions in the Forces
• A culture of self-reliance and avoidance of ‘weakness’
• Long periods of separation from partner and family
• Impact of injury and/or sudden discharge on career and family