Breaking the cycle: exploring the bidirectional link between loneliness and unemployment

Abstract

This systematic literature review explored the bidirectional relation between loneliness and unemployment through a systematic analysis of job loss's economic, social, and psychological impacts. Through the synthesis of evidence from existing literature, the study demonstrates the effects of unemployment. It enhances social isolation and contributes to mental health issues like suicidal ideation, anxiety, and depression within the population. Moreover, unemployment often causes disruptions in existing routines, reducing a sense of meaning and leading to feelings of insufficiency. These disruptions can have an influence beyond the person, affecting the family and wider social circles, exacerbating the experience of loneliness.

The study also identified a vicious cycle where unemployment is a major predictor of loneliness and the negative impacts of job loss/unemployment on the victim’s self-esteem and social networks. The cycle implies that interventions must address both unemployment and its psychological consequences in a simultaneous manner in order to break the vicious circle. Furthermore, the promotion of social involvement and the facilitation of access to mental health services can significantly mitigate these negative outcomes. The findings highlight the benefits of developing and implementing tailored methodologies seeking to address the adverse effects of unemployment on the social well-being of individuals and to enhance their overall health.