Loneliness in the workplace is a common issue that impacts employees’ well-being, productivity, and job satisfaction.

We are more connected than ever, yet we lack a deeper level of support, leaving us isolated and alone.

We must acknowledge the loneliness and isolation that millions are experiencing and the severe effects on our mental and physical health and collective well-being.

Some things to consider:

• With the rise of remote work, employees may feel isolated and disconnected from their colleagues, leading to loneliness.
• Even in a traditional office setting, employees may feel lonely if they don’t have moments for social interaction with their coworkers. This can happen if they work in a small team, have limited interaction with colleagues outside their department, or if their workplace culture doesn’t prioritize socializing.
• Employees who feel like they don’t fit in with their colleagues or experience unfair treatment may feel lonely in the workplace.
• Loneliness can take a toll on an employee’s mental health, leading to symptoms of depression and anxiety.
• When employees are lonely, they may struggle to stay motivated or engage with their work, resulting in decreased productivity and lower job satisfaction.

To combat loneliness in the workplace, employers can take some simple and impactful steps to foster a sense of community and social connection among employees:

• Promote a positive and inclusive workplace culture through deliberate, inclusive recruitment and hiring practices, open and agile communication processes, and learning and professional development opportunities.
• Create programs and support around workplace well-being (mental, physical, social, community, culture & purpose).
• Support employees struggling with mental health issues related to loneliness through training, outreach and programs.