Vibe Check Practice

Our phones ping all day. Social media never sleeps. Our friend lists are long—but so are our lonely nights. If you’ve ever sat among people, stared at your screen, and wondered, “Why do I still feel like no one really sees me?”, you’re not alone.

The World Health Organization estimates 16% of people worldwide feel lonely—that’s 1 in 6.

Young adults also report more isolated days than older adults, even when their social circles are larger. It’s not always about how many people you know—it’s about how connected you feel.

Why It Hurts

Perceived Authenticity vs. Presentation: Many feel pressure to present a polished life online—smiling faces, constant updates—but this can widen the gap between what we show and how we feel inside.

Reduced In-Person Interaction: Even when connected digitally, the lack of real, face-to-face, meaningful interactions makes it harder to feel deeply seen or understood.

High Standards + Comparison: Seeing curated highlight reels of others (travel, relationships, success) intensifies the feeling that everyone else has it figured out.

Mismatch Between Network Size and Depth: As the data shows, more acquaintances doesn’t equal less loneliness. Having “few but close” ties often matters more.

The Hidden Costs

Increased risk of anxiety, depression, worse sleep, and lower self-esteem.

In terms of physical health impacts, loneliness has been linked to higher inflammation, risk of cardiovascular issues, earlier mortality. WHO suggests strong social ties contribute significantly to overall health and longevity.

Small Steps that Help

Quality over Quantity: Reach out with intention to one person. A real conversation > dozens of messages.

Safe Spaces: Find places (online/offline) where vulnerability is accepted—support groups, small forums, therapy.

Be Your Genuine Self: Even if it’s scary, share parts of your real experience. Authenticity often invites deeper connection.

Routine Social Dose: Plan small recurring habits—coffee once a week, walks with friend, etc.

Check Your Boundaries with Screens: Limit consumption that triggers comparison; spend time offline.

Loneliness today is not a sign of weakness—it’s a signal.

It’s our heart’s way of asking for connection, authenticity, and real kindness. If you’re feeling this, it’s okay. You deserve to be seen, heard, and understood. And taking steps—even small ones—towards genuine connection matters more than any perfect life curated online.

Loneliness is not weakness.

it’s a reminder that we are wired for connection

Corlissa Seah, Counsellor & Founder of Vibe Check Practice
Providing online therapy to support mental health and well-being

Book an appointment with us using this link!