Federal authorities initiate campaign to highlight issue of solitude: Government aims to boost public awareness regarding loneliness - German Authorities Propose Highlighting the Issue of Solitude
Germany Launches Fourth Action Week to Combat Loneliness
The Federal Government has initiated the fourth Action Week aimed at addressing the issue of loneliness, with a particular focus on children, youth, and the general public. The week-long event, starting on Monday, will emphasize low-key initiatives promoting community interaction and exchange.
Family Minister Karin Prien stated that loneliness is a significant aspect of social health and that fostering relationships and having social outlets is essential for overall well-being. The minister intends to continue the cross-departmental strategy on loneliness that was launched in December 2023 by the previous federal government.
According to a report by Techniker Krankenkasse (TK), younger generations in Germany are particularly affected by loneliness, with 68% of young adults aged 18-39 reporting frequent or occasional feelings of loneliness. The study found that loneliness often accompanies depression and affects people across all age groups, with 58% of respondents admitting to experiencing feelings of isolation.
The federal government's initiative against loneliness is based on a broad "Strategy to Counter Loneliness" that was adopted in late 2023 and outlines specific measures within five objectives. These measures are aimed at enhancing social connectedness and interaction across the country.
The minister will open the conference "Together Against Loneliness" in Berlin, which will be co-hosted by the Ministry and the Competence Network Loneliness. The theme of this year's Action Week is "Playing Together," encouraging local initiatives, clubs, and projects to participate in communal activities.
The Federal Ministry for Education, Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth plays a leading role in implementing these strategies against loneliness. The ministry funds initiatives like the Loneliness Network Germany (Kompetenznetz Einsamkeit) that address the causes and consequences of loneliness across all age groups.
While the ensuing community activities and projects foster social bonds among children and youth, they also cater to the broader goal of reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness among all age groups. The government emphasizes both preventing the propagation of loneliness and intervening early, ensuring that children and young people receive support through community programs, education, and health initiatives.
The European Parliament, alongside the Council and the Commission, has expressed support for the German government's Action Week against loneliness, recognizing its importance in promoting mental health and wellness across all age groups. In light of the rising numbers of young adults experiencing loneliness in Germany, science-led health initiatives are being proposed to address this issue.
