Bottom Line: Struggling with feelings of inferiority, not being “macho” enough, and the stigma of expressing their emotions around loneliness are common reasons why men feel lonely. As a whole, loneliness in men isn't uncommon, even though it's rarely discussed.
Beyond the negative mental health impacts, the CDC reports that those who are lonely are at a higher risk for dementia, heart failure or stroke, and even premature death. Men have often reported having fewer friends and social connections to rely on, with 15 percent saying they have no close friends at all.
Men and loneliness
Men tend to report higher levels of loneliness than women, with 39% of men living alone experiencing loneliness and one in three men believe that there is no one to help them out if in they're in need.
What does it mean when a man tells you he is lonely? It might mean that he need someone to talk to or he just need someone who can listen to whatever he want to express. It is rare if a man says that he is lonely beacuse usually they rather keep it into theirselves that telling it to someone.
Most researchers, however, agree that single men tend to be especially lonely, and that certain social norms governing masculinity may increase the risk of loneliness in men. Some early research on loneliness also suggests men may be less likely than women to admit to feelings of loneliness.
A loner is a person who does not seek out, or may actively avoid, interaction with other people. There are many potential reasons for their solitude. Intentional reasons include introversion, mysticism, spirituality, religion, or personal considerations. Unintentional reasons involve being highly sensitive or shy.
Poets - “If a man knows more than others, he becomes lonely.” — Carl Jung | Facebook.
Studies have shown that people who are lonely are more likely to experience poor health outcomes, including heart disease, stroke, and even premature death. This may be due to the fact that loneliness can increase stress levels and lead to unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking, drinking, and overeating.
And while marriage offers lifelong support and companionship, the study shows that married men have some of the lowest levels of support outside the home. While 11 per cent of single men said they had no friends to turn to in a serious situation, that rose to 15 per cent among married men.
A lack of communication, disengagement, and a sour temperament are all signs you can look out for if you think your partner is unhappy.
For instance, loneliness is correlated with social anxiety, social inhibition (shyness), sadness, hostility, distrust, and low self-esteem, characteristics that hamper one's ability to interact in skillful and rewarding ways.
What Is a Loner Personality? Loners are people who actively try to stay as far away as possible from social interactions. They prefer solitude over the company of others and tend to enjoy being preoccupied with their thoughts. Loners usually don't mind sitting idly or waiting, so long as they are alone when doing it.
"One of the best things to do for loneliness is to begin to build a better social network. Community organizations, religious groups, and social groups around shared interest provide wonderful ways to connect with others."
“It's very common that people find themselves in long-term relationships feeling lonely,” says Niloo Dardashti, a New York-based psychologist and relationship expert.
Loneliness is not an uncommon emotion for men. While it is underreported, it doesn't mean that it isn't there. It takes a lot of confidence and strength to overcome the barrier of “boys don't cry”. You're not alone.
Men are evolutionarily wired to need solitude. It is where we find peace, quiet, solace, and a connection to the soul. Men and women have adapted differently to some degree throughout the ages, to require different ways of coming back home to themselves, from the stresses of the world.
According to a study, among the most frequent reasons that men indicated for being single included not being interested in a relationship, poor flirting skills, low self-confidence, poor looks, shyness, low effort, and bad experience(s) from previous relationships.
Be there. Simply being there for them can let them know that someone cares. Don't be afraid to ask them how they are feeling or if there's anything you can do to help. Having someone who is willing to listen could be a great comfort.