A new study from the Department of Public Health Sciences at Stockholm University suggests that loneliness during the transition from adolescence to adulthood may contribute to later mental health problems. The research shows that young people who felt lonely at age 18 were more likely to develop depression and anxiety in the following years, both through clinical diagnoses and self-reported symptoms.The study, published in the Scandinavian Journal of Public Health, is based on data from Futura01, a Swedish national cohort study following individuals born in 2001. By combining survey responses with national register data, researchers were able to examine both diagnosed mental health conditions and self-reported psychological symptoms.Approximately 14 percent of participants reported experiencing loneliness at age 18. These individuals showed a higher likelihood of being diagnosed with depression or anxiety at ages 19–20 and reporting symptoms at age 21. The associations remained significant even after adjusting for socioeconomic background and previous mental health issues. The findings also indicate that loneliness and mental health problems were more commonly reported among women.Researchers emphasize that emerging adulthood is a critical developmental stage marked by educational, social, and psychological transitions. While loneliness can be a temporary and common experience, the study highlights its potential long-term impact on mental health. The findings underscore the importance of early preventive efforts aimed at strengthening social connections and supporting young people during this transitional period.
Source: Department of Public Health Sciences, Stockholm University
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