English midlifers are the loneliest in Europe – and I think I know why | Emma Beddington

I fully understand the problem as I rarely see my friends and no longer have workmates. But is there a solution?

I’m sad English midlifers are the loneliest in Europe: poor Gen Xers, sitting at home, wishing we had someone to go to the pub with.

Researchers at Arizona State University found that although we’re the worst off in Europe, we’re not alone. OK, we sort of are – that’s the point – but midlifers in Germany, Spain, Italy and Greece are similarly afflicted. Those in the Netherlands, Denmark and Sweden aren’t, interestingly. “Middle-aged adults reporting the lowest levels of loneliness live in countries with robust government-supported safety nets,” said the study lead, Prof Frank Infurna. “Generous family and work policies likely lessen midlife loneliness through reducing financial pressures and work-family conflict.”

Emma Beddington is a Guardian columnist

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