The Lonely Generation

Essential reading for all parents, The Lonely Generation sounds the alarm on a looming public health crisis within younger people - and provides empowering, practical steps to build a healthier, more connected world for our children.

Younger generations are bearing the brunt of social media, big tech and rising costs. Their mental health has gone into freefall with higher rates of anxiety, depression and self-harm. How do we untangle the knots that keep them trapped in feelings of loneliness?

Associate Professor Michelle Lim is Australia's leading expert on loneliness. She shows us how we got here and what can be done about this public health emergency.

Drawing on the latest research in psychology, sociology and neuroscience, The Lonely Generation is an agenda-setting investigation into the profound impacts of loneliness on young people, and how parents and educators can work to form networks and cultures that foster deep, meaningful social connection.

It's not too late to turn back the clock and give our kids the safe, healthy, free childhoods they deserve.

'Evidence-based, humane and intensely practical ... a brilliant analysis of our most pressing social issue, from a global leader in loneliness research.' - HUGH MACKAY AO

'In The Lonely Generation, Michelle Lim helps us understand why loneliness has become a defining societal challenge of the 21st century. She expertly weaves together stories and statistics that help us understand why our kids have been hit particularly hard and what we can do to build a more connected and thriving society. Timely and essential reading for anyone concerned about today's youth.' - VIVEK MURTHY, MD, MBA.

About the Author

Michelle Lim is the CEO and Scientific Chair of Ending Loneliness Together, a national peak body addressing persistent loneliness and social isolation in Australia. She is also an associate professor at the Prevention Research Collaboration, Sydney School of Public Health at the University of Sydney.

Michelle is considered the leading Australian scientific expert in loneliness, and her work informs governments and the not-for-profit and corporate sectors across the world. In 2024, she was appointed as one of 20 global experts on the Technical Advisory Group to the World Health Organization Commission to Social Connection. She is a practising clinical psychologist with over 22 years' experience