Dear Colleagues,

Although the impact of loneliness on mental health is widely discussed, new perspectives are needed to balance the current dominant narrative. Loneliness is often attributed to personal deficits, such as poor social skills or genetic predispositions, either explicitly or implicitly in the media or in scientific research. Crucially, it is increasingly recognised that this dominant perspective neglects important factors that, if unaddressed, are likely to perpetuate loneliness. Indeed, loneliness is a multidimensional and complex phenomenon, and fostering a more balanced and nuanced understanding of loneliness and its related phenomena by moving beyond deficit-based perspectives toward constructive and contextually informed ones is important to better prevent and address this problem. Therefore, the special issue focuses on the complex relationship between loneliness and mental health and will welcome a wide range of papers: Empirical work using qualitative, cross-sectional, longitudinal, experimental, or diary designs across different age groups and with particular attention to non-WEIRD populations that are less well represented in the literature. Psychometric contributions—such as the development or adaptation of measurement tools—are also welcome. In addition, we are also interested in evidence from systematic reviews and meta-analyses of this topic. We especially welcome work focused on the following three issues:

The relationship between loneliness and mental health among minoritized populations: To explore the relationship between loneliness and mental health among minoritized people – for example, people with disabilities, mental illness, long-term chronic diseases, or residents of poor areas. At some point, we would also consider using disaggregated data by sex and focusing on middle-aged individuals, as most of the existing literature has primarily examined older adults and younger populations-while also extending the analysis to recent mothers and retired individuals. What factors decrease mental health in people who feel lonely? What factors might protect those who feel lonely from detrimental mental health outcomes? How does solitude link to loneliness in minoritised social groups? Under what conditions do people in these groups benefit from solitude or being alone? Paper can also evaluate or propose strategies to reduce loneliness in different social contexts. Potential approaches include psychological, educational and sociological interventions at individual and community levels, such as psychotherapy and public campaigns.

Beliefs and attitudes about loneliness: Studies examining beliefs, perceptions, and narratives about loneliness and related phenomena, their antecedents and consequences for individuals and society. For example, what are the psychological and relational outcomes of loneliness stigma? Are beliefs about loneliness modifiable and can this be of benefit to those who feel lonely (and, if so, how)? What interventions might reduce loneliness stigma in different populations?

Digital-era perspectives: Analyses of how studies on the relationship between loneliness and mental health is constructed, reproduced, or challenged in digital environments, including on social media platforms.

Asst. Prof. Elvira Lara Pérez and Assoc. Prof. Zhiguang Fan
Guest Editors