It's characterized by constant and unrelenting feelings of being alone, separated or divided from others, and an inability to connect on a deeper level. It can also be accompanied by deeply rooted feelings of self-doubt, low self-esteem, or social anxiety.
Loneliness is a health hazard, as dangerous as smoking or alcoholism, according to some research. A major study by scientists at Brigham Young University in the US found that long-term social isolation can increase a person's risk of premature death by as much as 32 per cent.
Bottom Line: Struggling with feelings of inferiority, not being “macho” enough, and the stigma of expressing their emotions around loneliness are common reasons why men feel lonely. As a whole, loneliness in men isn't uncommon, even though it's rarely discussed.
Most researchers, however, agree that single men tend to be especially lonely, and that certain social norms governing masculinity may increase the risk of loneliness in men. Some early research on loneliness also suggests men may be less likely than women to admit to feelings of loneliness.
Men and loneliness
Men tend to report higher levels of loneliness than women, with 39% of men living alone experiencing loneliness and one in three men believe that there is no one to help them out if in they're in need.
Most men have some level of insecurity. We are afraid to get caught in our insecurities, so we become aggressive toward others or we become passive and hide. We get wrapped up in not getting caught which actually makes us more isolated.
Be there. Simply being there for them can let them know that someone cares. Don't be afraid to ask them how they are feeling or if there's anything you can do to help. Having someone who is willing to listen could be a great comfort.
Why are some guys always single? According to a study, among the most frequent reasons that men indicated for being single included not being interested in a relationship, poor flirting skills, low self-confidence, poor looks, shyness, low effort, and bad experience(s) from previous relationships.
Loneliness affects people in different ways, and for this reason there are four distinct types of loneliness identified by psychologists: emotional, social, situational and chronic.
Lonely individuals tend to have a pessimistic general outlook: they are more negative than are individuals who are not lonely about the people, events, and circumstances in their lives, and they tend to blame themselves for not being able to achieve satisfactory social relationships.
Try something like: “I know I can't meet all your needs (or be present as much as you'd like), but I just want to remind you how much you mean to me and that you can count on me. Is there anything you can think of right now that I could say or that we could do that would feel meaningful?”
Loneliness and the need to self-isolate are common in borderline personality disorder. Here's how you can overcome these feelings. If you live with this condition, you might crave close connections with others — but you might also find it challenging to interact with them.
Guys mainly act distant when they are uncertain of their feelings or yours. Please don't give up when you notice a sudden change in his demeanor. Instead, make him trust you more by assuring him of your love. Let him know you value the relationship and hope you build it together.
Studies have shown that people who are lonely are more likely to experience poor health outcomes, including heart disease, stroke, and even premature death. This may be due to the fact that loneliness can increase stress levels and lead to unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking, drinking, and overeating.
The Rise in the Number of Lonely Single Men in the U.S.
About four in every 10 adults (38%) between the ages of 25 and 54 do not have a partner. That percentage is up sharply from 30 years ago, when it stood at 29%. Furthermore, that increase is more pronounced among men than in women.