In my earlier blog about loneliness in young people, I explored some of the reasons why so many are struggling with this issue today. But loneliness is not an unchangeable fate—there is much we can do to prevent it in children and teenagers. In this post, I’ll draw on both established research from social and psychological studies and my own experiences and observations to share practical ways we can help young people feel more connected.

Create Real-World Social Skills

Young people need to be together in person to truly learn how to interact, navigate tricky situations, and build lasting relationships. The virtual world just can’t replace these essential experiences.

Why does this matter?

In real life, we can’t just mute a tough conversation or block someone we find difficult. We can’t filter ourselves to look taller or thinner, or escape into a more desirable world. We have to face what’s in front of us—sometimes awkward, sometimes wonderful, always real.

But here’s the magic: real-world interactions offer genuine connection and affection. Online, connections are often fleeting and superficial—like chewing strawberry bubble gum instead of eating real strawberries. Sweet, but not nourishing.

What can parents, caregivers, and communities do?

• Prioritise in-person playdates, group activities, and social gatherings.

• Encourage participation in team sports, clubs, or group projects.

• Create opportunities for mixed-age interactions (family gatherings, community events).

• Limit screen time to ensure there’s plenty of face-to-face practice.

• Providing age-appropriate free play time. Young people need chances to

  handle social situations on their own. It’s tempting to step in, but real growth

  comes from learning to stand on their own feet. Instead of intervening, support them by debriefing after the experience—this helps them learn and grow from life’s inevitable lessons.

Build Community Connections

Community activities are a fantastic way for young people to forge social bonds and feel like they belong. For these activities to truly work, young people should have a say in designing them. This helps them feel heard, teaches responsibility, and gives them a sense of agency and self-efficacy.

Examples of community activities:

• Youth-led service projects

• Interest-based clubs (robotics, music, environmental action)

• Recreational programs with leadership opportunities

• Mentorship programs connecting teens with adults

Teach Emotional Resilience

Children and teenagers need to learn how to handle their emotions—sadness, anger, disappointment, frustration, jealousy, anxiety—in a world that gives them plenty of reasons to feel all of these things.

This learning takes guidance, especially in the moment or soon after a challenging situation. Parents, caregivers, teachers, and other adults all play a role. And if a young person has already developed unhelpful coping strategies, a therapist or trained coach can be invaluable in helping them identifying negative patterns and build healthier ones.

A real-world story:

When my daughter was in first grade, she wanted to invite friends to her birthday party. We made invitations together, but her teacher wouldn’t let her hand them out at school—worried other kids might feel left out.

Instead of learning to cope with disappointment, the children were shielded from it. However, life doesn’t always spare us from difficult moments. If we constantly clear the path for our children instead of preparing them to navigate the road themselves, they will expect the world to change to suit their needs. When reality doesn’t meet these expectations, they can easily feel misunderstood, abandoned, and ultimately quite lonely.

Use Technology Mindfully

Now, I know I sound sceptical about technology—but let me explain. The internet is part of our reality, and it’s not going away. Like any tool, it can be used for good or for harm.

The real question isn’t if we use technology, but how.

• Are we using it to create, connect, and learn?

• Or are we using it to numb ourselves or escape reality?

The latter can be damaging, especially for young minds. That’s not even counting the risks of manipulative online content designed for profit, not wellbeing.

So what’s the answer?

Caution, mindfulness, and responsible use. The internet can be a wonderful resource—if used in moderation and with care.

• Set clear boundaries for device use.

• Choose moderated, supportive online communities.

• Use technology for learning and creativity, not avoidance.

Adults need to take back control and set clear, age-appropriate limits on young people’s internet use. While young people may be more technically skilled, their lack of life experience and ongoing development mean they cannot fully anticipate the potential harm that excessive time online or misuse of the internet can cause. It’s essential that the younger the child, the less time they should spend in front of screens. By setting firm boundaries and providing guidance, adults can help protect young people from consequences they may not yet understand.

Moving Forward: Building a Connected Future

Preventing loneliness in young people is a community effort. Parents, educators, policymakers, and community leaders all have a role in creating environments where young people can develop genuine connections, emotional resilience, and the skills to thrive in a complex world.

The goal isn’t to eliminate every challenge, but to equip young people with the tools and support they need to face those challenges with confidence and connection.

Remember: "Young people are naturally resilient and capable of deep, meaningful relationships. Our job is to create the conditions where these qualities can flourish."

Together, we can build a world where every young person feels connected, valued, and strong.

Thank you for reading, and for caring about the wellbeing of our next generation.

Loneliness in Young People:

Prevention, Connection, and Real-World Skills - A Practical Guide