30/01/2026
LONELINESS is one of Ireland’s biggest mental health challenges — ranking No. 4 nationally.
Over 1 in 5 Irish people feel lonely most or all of the time, with around 1 in 7 experiencing ongoing loneliness.
Samaritans Ireland report that roughly one-third of their helpline calls involve loneliness or isolation — a figure that’s been climbing steadily.
Loneliness isn’t just about living alone.
It affects people across every community — busy professionals, parents juggling everything, students living away from home, older adults whose families have emigrated, young people scrolling through phones in crowded rooms, and those living far from extended family.
And it carries real consequences: increased risk of anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts.
But here’s the hopeful part — connection is one of our strongest protective factors.
This weekend, try one small action:
• Text someone you’ve been meaning to check in on
• Invite a neighbour for tea or a walk along the local greenway
• Ring a family member instead of another scroll through your phone
• Call to someone living alone on your road
• Let someone know they’re in your thoughts
And if you’re the one feeling lonely — you’re not weak, and you’re absolutely not alone in this. Reaching out takes real courage.
At SAFE, we believe mental health support begins with human connection.
Small moments of connection can shift everything♥️