The Powerful Link Between Loneliness and Addiction: How Connection Can Aid Recovery

Everyone feels lonely at times. But is loneliness becoming an epidemic, and is it leading to a crisis of addiction? While statistics on loneliness peaked during the pandemic, they’ve remained concerningly high ever since. In fact, a third of all American adults feel lonely at least one day per week, and one in 10 experiences loneliness on a daily basis.

Keep reading as we take a closer look at the connection between loneliness and a potentially increased risk of addiction. We’ll examine how feelings of isolation may trigger substance use disorder (SUD) and dependence, and how, with the right support, addiction recovery is possible.

The Link Between Loneliness and Addiction: A Vicious Cycle

The statistics on substance use disorder are alarming, to say the least. In the past year, 39% of adults in the U.S. have used some form of illicit drug. Of these, many are also struggling with mental health issues, while others grapple with feelings of social isolation. The internet era has also served to further disconnect us, lessening face-to-face interactions that never recovered in the post-COVID era.

Those who study addiction and SUD know that loneliness is often a symptom of drug use, but researchers have also now concluded that loneliness is a primary risk factor for potential drug addiction. What begins as a coping mechanism for a sense of loneliness often results in a drug dependency that causes further isolation and withdrawal from former support systems and social networks.

Research has shown that older adults are most likely to experience loneliness and extreme isolation, but new studies find that loneliness is becoming prevalent in adolescence, when the pressure to experiment with drugs, alcohol, and other substances is greatest. But how can a feeling of loneliness spark an actual addiction?

How Loneliness Triggers Addiction: The Science Behind the Connection

Substance use addiction — another term for SUD — is dependence on a drug, either illegal or legal but taken inappropriately, to the point that it impacts the daily life of the user and renders them unable to fulfill their responsibilities.

The science of loneliness and addiction lies in the cyclical nature of both, as described above. People who are lonely look for ways to ease their feelings of isolation, which often comes in the form of illicit substance use.

To numb the pain of their loneliness, they use more and more, or use harsher and more dangerous substances, until they eventually develop a dependence. The drug use itself also contributes to their isolation, which compounds the problem. By ostracizing their support network, they eliminate one of the most valuable tools in addiction recovery — a system of supportive loved ones and peers.

All of this continues the vicious cycle of addiction, loneliness, and isolation, leaving many feeling trapped, or so lost in their illness that they don’t see a way out.

The Power of Connection: Why Support Systems Are Essential for Addiction Treatment and Recovery

Fortunately, there is hope for those struggling with the round-and-round battle of addiction, mental health disorders, and loneliness. We saw during the pandemic that older adults beset with loneliness and at risk of substance misuse improved when they had family members regularly checking in. The same principle can be effective no matter the age of the person impacted by addiction.

Networks of Social Support

It doesn’t take an official or regimented support group to help a person going through addiction recovery. It may be as simple as reaching out to an existing social network and being more intentional about the time spent with others. Instead of connecting on social media, try to meet up face-to-face.

Recovery Support Groups

While you don’t have to attend a structured support group to address feelings of loneliness, it certainly does help, especially in the absence of family support. In many cases, these groups are guided or supported by licensed mental health professionals who help create a safe, respectful environment where participants can openly share.

A recovery group can provide unbiased and nonjudgmental advice and insight, without the baggage that often comes with dealing with loved ones and complicated family histories.

Accountability Partners

One-on-one support is also extremely valuable for those navigating recovery from substance use disorder. Finding an accountability partner who has been on the same journey is an effective way to combat loneliness in ways that are healthier than turning to substances.

Be cautious, however, as accountability can also look a lot like peer pressure. You want to be sure your partner has your best interests at heart and that you are fully invested in one another’s well-being.

Friends and Family Support

You don’t often have to look far to find the support you need to recover from substance use. In fact, simply having family and loved ones nearby and approaching the addiction as a united front can be enough to lessen the loneliness and significantly improve outcomes. Parent and family support groups are particularly important for teens and young adults struggling with SUD.

How Support Groups and Social Connection Facilitate Recovery

Can attending support groups or simply putting yourself in social situations really help with addiction recovery? It can, and for many, it does. The beauty of support is that you can structure your social interactions to your preference. Some people prefer a peer group that meets regularly, while others simply want a friendly face or trusted loved one to lend them a listening ear.

Here are some ways to increase social connection to support recovery:

How Caron's Treatment Programs Can Help

At Caron Treatment Centers, we know that the journey to recovery isn’t a linear path from Point A to Point B. There are many stops, and often circles, ups and downs, and even what feel like dead ends in between. Our professional treatment programs, available in both inpatient and outpatient settings, are evidence-based and address mental health conditions that contribute to feelings of loneliness and social isolation.

Whether you’re the one feeling alone and frightened, or you’re worried for someone you care about, contact Caron to explore your options and resources today.