Third Places as Sanctuaries: Addressing Loneliness Amongst Young People

Researched and written by Kirsten Hertog, UNSW psychology undergraduate and content creator at Inlight Psychology.

In today's fast-paced, hyper-connected world, the shadow of loneliness extends far and wide despite our ever-increasing ability to connect with others online. Loneliness affects individuals across all ages, gender, and socio-economic status. Young people, despite their deeply intertwined digital lives, appear to be one of the main groups grappling with a lack of connection and those under 30 have been found to experience the highest rates of loneliness amongst all age groups (Hawkley et al., 2022; Osborn et al., 2021). Studies indicate that up to 80% of young individuals have experienced loneliness, with about one in ten often feeling lonely (Hawkley & Cacioppo, 2010; Snape, 2018). But, amidst the hustle and bustle of our lives, there may lie a simple yet powerful solution.

What is Loneliness?

Loneliness transcends fleeting moments of solitude, manifesting as a significant mental and physical health concern. Defined as the discomfort felt due to a lack of meaningful social connections, loneliness can lead to depression, anxiety, and even weaken the immune system (Cacioppo & Hawkley, 2009; Matthews, Danese, et al., 2019). Amongst young people, chronic loneliness has also been linked to suicidal ideation, social phobias and eating disorders (Lasgaard, Goossens, & Elklit, 2011). Studies examining large groups of people have found that the experience of loneliness follows a U-shaped curve, with the highest rates of loneliness occurring in individuals younger than 25 and older than 65 (Lasgaard, Friis, & Shevlin, 2016; Victor & Yang, 2012). In modern-day Australia, it has become increasingly clear that young people are struggling under the weight of the rising cost of living, which can lead to housing insecurity, financial stress, and social isolation, factors that may further exacerbate feelings of loneliness.

How Can the Current Cost of Living and Precarious Work Impact Loneliness?

The rising cost of living in Australia has become a central concern for young people, compounding the challenges already posed by the post-pandemic impact on precarious employment and reduced in-person social opportunities. The employment landscape is increasingly characterised by casual contracts and unstable work arrangements, particularly affecting the nation’s youth. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (2023), there were approximately 2.7 million casual employees in Australia as of 2023, with more than 40% of all casuals aged under 25. While casual work offers flexibility and potential for face-to-face connection, it is now also frequently accompanied by remote work and online learning modalities that, while convenient, can limit social interaction and foster a sense of isolation. Many young Australians now spend much of their time working or studying from home, disconnected from the informal encounters once found in physical workplaces and on campus. Even when students do attend university in person, long commutes often discourage them from spending time on campus, leading to fewer regular in-person interactions, an essential component in building meaningful relationships.

The current cost-of-living crisis further reduces opportunities for connection, with the rising costs of attending concerts, festivals, and other social events creating financial barriers to participation. The recent cancellation of several prominent Australian music festivals, traditionally popular among young people, has only added to this cultural and social void. Moreover, the uncertain financial situation that can arise from the precarious nature of casual employment may impact young people’s decisions to spend money on the activities and events that still occur. As a result, many choose to stay home to save money, leading to fewer social interactions and a growing sense of disconnection. However, it is important to recognise that in-person casual employment, low-cost hobbies, and group activities in interactive environments can still offer meaningful social engagement and a sense of community. As models of work, education, and social life continue to evolve, finding ways to foster accessible, in-person connection, often through third places, remains essential to the wellbeing of young Australians.

What are Third Places?

Despite these financial obstacles, the value of attending social events or places to nurture a sense of community and belonging cannot be understated, especially in an era where digital platforms often substitute physical interaction, leading to a paradox of connectivity yet profound loneliness. Third places, originally conceptualised by sociologist Ray Oldenburg, are foundational in nurturing social connections and enriching public life, providing a crucial counterbalance to the structured environments of home and work (Oldenburg, 1999). These diverse settings, from lively cafes to tranquil parks and welcoming community centres, act as pivotal social anchors. They offer young individuals, particularly, a space for spontaneous social interaction and the development of communal bonds, serving as essential platforms for mental and emotional health, especially amidst the unpredictability of uncertain employment and unstable finances. Beyond mere locations, third places encapsulate the core of community life, promoting informal interactions vital for fostering individual identity and collective cohesion (Finlay et al., 2019).

Social Media & Loneliness

In contrast, the rise of the digital era has ushered in a new form of third places: online communities and social media platforms. In recent findings by the Pew Research Centre, it was observed that an overwhelming 91% of smartphone owners between the ages of 18 and 29 utilised their phones for social networking activities at least once throughout the duration of the study. This is compared to just 55% of those aged 50 and older. On the surface, the enhanced social connections made possible through social media might be expected to lead to improved psychological well-being. However, despite high levels of social media engagement, loneliness continues to be a prevalent issue in these same communities (Pittman & Reich, 2016). Although it has the ability to connect us, social media often falls short in reducing loneliness because it tends to encourage superficial interactions, fosters comparison and envy, emphasises the quantity over the quality of connections, leads to passive engagement, and lacks the psychological benefits of face-to-face interactions found in physical spaces, highlighting the need for a balance between digital and real-world socialising. These digital spaces provide a different avenue for connection, yet the tangible benefits of physical third places may remain unmatched in enhancing community vitality and personal well-being.

Accessibility to these physical spaces is paramount; Jeffres et al. (2009) noted the direct link between the accessibility of third places and the community's quality of life. However, challenges persist, such as inclusivity barriers and physical accessibility, which can deter their use (Hickman, 2013). Moreover, third places can reflect societal tensions, becoming battlegrounds of exclusion rather than inclusion (Jeffres et al., 2009). Nevertheless, when designed and maintained with everyone in mind, third places can transcend these challenges, fostering a safe, inclusive environment that encourages open interaction (Soukup, 2006). The balancing act between embracing the convenience of digital spaces while nurturing the unique benefits of physical third places is essential for building resilient, connected communities.

Reducing Loneliness Through Third Places

Whilst societal and structural changes are crucial in addressing the broader spectrum of loneliness, especially when it comes to precarious work and the cost of leisure activities, our own individual actions can carry significant weight in overcoming social isolation. Here are several strategies to effectively address loneliness, helping you forge deeper connections and enhance your overall sense of belonging:

• Explore the Roots of Loneliness: Engage with a psychologist to delve into issues such as social anxiety or past traumas. Understanding these factors can provide insight into your feelings of isolation and guide you toward meaningful change.

• Redefine Engagement in Third Places: Actively choose activities that align with your personal interests and values. Whether it's participating in community projects that spark your passion or joining clubs that mirror your hobbies, make intentional choices to enrich your social life.

• Create Enriching Social Opportunities: Focus on fostering interactions that are not only enjoyable but also enhance your sense of identity and belonging. This approach makes socialising a personally fulfilling endeavour.

• Embrace Physical Spaces: Recognise the unique value of face-to-face interactions in physical third places like parks, community centres, and cafes. These spaces provide essential social anchors and a tangible sense of community that digital platforms can't replicate.

• Balance Online and Offline Interactions: Thoughtfully navigate the balance between digital and real-world connections. Intentionally engaging in activities that strengthen genuine community ties can enhance your overall sense of belonging and well-being.

The intertwining issues of the current cost of living, digital interactions, and the timeless need for meaningful social connections confront young Australians with a truly difficult challenge. Yet, amidst these modern complexities, third places can be seen as vital havens, offering both a physical and emotional sanctuary from the isolating effects of an unpredictable job market and the possible superficiality of online interactions. While digital platforms present new opportunities for connection, it could be argued that they cannot replace the tangible sense of community found in physical third spaces. As we navigate the delicate balance between online and offline worlds, it's important to take proactive steps towards nurturing real-world interactions that resonate with personal values and contribute to a true sense of belonging. By embracing third places with intentionality and exploring the roots of our loneliness, whether through personal reflection or professional guidance, we can forge paths to richer, more connected lives.

Kirsten Hertog

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