1 in 5 people say mental health is the leading cause of loneliness
Survey shows many keep their feelings hidden as loneliness continues to affect mental health
Last updated 17th Feb 2026
New research commissioned by Gloucestershire based company COHO has found that mental health challenges and anxiety are the leading causes of loneliness in Britain, with 1 in 5 people citing these conditions as the primary reason behind their feelings of isolation.
The survey, conducted among 3,000 UK residents, revealed that over half of respondents feel lonely at least once a week.
Additionally, more than 1 in 10 reported being treated by the NHS for symptoms associated with loneliness, a factor that places added strain on healthcare services.
Mental health and loneliness appear to be closely linked, with 20% of those surveyed saying that loneliness exacerbates issues such as anxiety, depression, and worry, particularly among 36 to 45-year-olds.
Nearly a quarter of respondents said feelings of loneliness leave them experiencing emotions such as hopelessness, emptiness, sadness, and a lack of love.
Professor Andrea Wigfield, Director of the Campaign to End Loneliness and Centre for Loneliness Studies at Sheffield Hallam University, said: “COHO’s findings fall in line with other research which has been carried out nationally and internationally.
“We know that there is a cyclical link between mental health and loneliness.
“Conditions such as anxiety and depression mean that individuals are less likely to leave the house, meet other people, and engage in social interaction which can heighten their feelings of loneliness.
“At the same time, loneliness itself can lead to mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, lack of sleep, and loss of hope.”
The study also highlighted the impact of living situations on loneliness, with 15% of respondents blaming their living arrangements, either living with parents or people they don’t get along with, as contributing factors to their feelings of isolation.
Of those living with parents, 1 in 10 said their living arrangement interferes with their personal relationships, while 1 in 5 overall said they would consider moving into shared accommodation to feel less alone.
Among respondents who currently house-share, 10% said a lack of communal living spaces left them disconnected from those they live with.
Vann Vogstad, CEO of COHO, said that addressing loneliness requires societal changes rather than solely individual action.
“Loneliness isn’t just an emotional challenge, it’s a public health crisis.
“Research, including Harvard’s landmark Adult Development Study, shows that strong relationships are the single most powerful predictor of long-term wellbeing and longevity, far outweighing wealth or status.
“Chronic social loneliness carries health risks comparable to obesity or smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
"Shared living, when done right, can be part of the solution to today’s biggest challenges like the housing crisis and the loneliness epidemic.”
He added: "Co-living isn’t a fallback when you can’t afford your own place, it can be one of the most exciting, fulfilling ways to live.
“By designing spaces and communities that foster genuine connection, we can help turn loneliness into belonging."