Self-reflection, not diagnosis. This test is awaiting review by a qualified professional and cannot diagnose any condition. If loneliness comes with hopelessness or thoughts of harming yourself, please contact a crisis line such as 988 (US) or Samaritans on 116 123 (UK and Ireland), or your local emergency number.
What Loneliness Is
Loneliness is the painful feeling that your relationships do not meet your needs. It is different from being alone: you can feel lonely in a crowd, or content on your own. Researchers often distinguish different kinds of loneliness, and this self-check looks at three:
| Kind | What is missing |
|---|---|
| Missing close connection | A partner, best friend or confidant |
| Missing friends and community | A wider circle and sense of belonging |
| Not feeling understood | Being seen and known for who you are |
How It Is Scored
You rate 15 statements. Three are reversed. Your total and three kinds appear as percentages.
| Score | Result |
|---|---|
| 0% to 30% | Well connected |
| 31% to 50% | Sometimes lonely |
| 51% to 70% | Often lonely |
| 71% to 100% | Very lonely |
The statements are original to PrismaTest and not taken from published scales such as the UCLA Loneliness Scale.
What Research Says
- Loneliness is common. Large surveys in many countries find a substantial share of adults feel lonely often or always, with young adults reporting high levels.
- It affects health. Research led by Julianne Holt-Lunstad found that social isolation and loneliness are linked with higher risk of early death. In 2023, the US Surgeon General issued an advisory on the “epidemic of loneliness and isolation”.
- Loneliness can feed itself. Psychologist John Cacioppo’s work showed that loneliness can make people more alert to social threats, which can make reaching out feel harder.
- Connection can be rebuilt. Interventions that address unhelpful thoughts about social situations, as well as increasing contact, show benefits.
Gentle Steps Towards Connection
- Start small: a message to one person you have lost touch with.
- Join something regular: a class, volunteer group, sports team or faith community.
- Say yes to an invitation you might normally decline.
- Be curious: ask people questions and listen to their answers.
- Talk to someone: a doctor or counsellor can help, and some areas offer social prescribing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal to feel lonely?
Yes. Almost everyone feels lonely at times, especially during life changes like moving, a breakup or retirement.
Can you be lonely in a relationship?
Yes. Loneliness is about the quality of connection, not just its presence.
Is loneliness the same as depression?
No, but they are linked and can feed each other. If low mood persists, please speak to a professional.
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For self-reflection only. Not medical advice. See how we build our tests.