Authors

• Finnish Red Cross
• Taloustutkimus

Keywords

emotional states, interpersonal relations, loneliness, psychological well-being, social interaction, well-being (society)

Abstract

The survey studied experienced loneliness and opinions on issues related to loneliness in Finland. The survey was carried out by Taloustutkimus on behalf of the Finnish Red Cross.

First, the respondents were asked how often they feel they find company when they want it. They were also asked how strongly they feel this way and how long they had felt this way. The same questions were asked in relation to the statement 'there are people who really understand me'. Next, the respondents were asked how often they experience loneliness, feel isolated from other people and feel left out.

Next, those who had experienced loneliness were asked how long they had been lonely and what they think was the cause of their loneliness. The respondents were further asked where they had sought help for their loneliness. As open questions, the respondents were asked what they had done to alleviate their loneliness and what they would like to see done to reduce it. Finally, they were asked how serious a problem they consider loneliness to be.

Background variables included the respondent's gender, age, NUTS3 region of residence, education, occupation, household composition and size, ages of children living at home and household's gross annual income.