Social Media, Smartphones Fuel Loneliness Among Young Adults, Psychologist Warns

Social Media, Smartphones Fuel Loneliness Among Young Adults, Psychologist Warns
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Despite constant online connection through social media and smartphones, many young adults aged 18 to 25 report feeling lonely and emotionally distant, an article by Hindustan Times revealed citing a report by Swinburne University and VicHealth.

Dr. Simran Agrawal, a clinical psychologist, explains that frequent smartphone use conditions the brain’s reward system to seek instant gratification through likes and notifications, making it harder to find satisfaction in deeper, slower experiences like real conversations or personal goals. This leads to increased loneliness and anxiety.

She highlights that social media raises fear of judgment and comparison, as mistakes can be widely shared and curated online lives chip away at self-esteem. Many feel “alone together”—connected digitally but emotionally isolated.

Real connection requires emotional risk and honesty, which is often avoided online where people present polished, surface-level versions of themselves. Dr. Agrawal advises being intentional with technology use—such as limiting phone use during meals or having unfiltered conversations—to foster genuine bonds.