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The friendship recession: Why some adults are struggling to maintain close connections

Experts say busier schedules, moves and digital habits are leaving many adults with fewer close friendships and less emotional support.

  • Nearly 2m adults report feeling lonely or isolated as modern life pressures erode close social ties, presenting a significant challenge for maintaining meaningful relationships.
  • Amid demanding careers and parenting responsibilities, structural barriers often derail friendships, leaving individuals struggling to balance competing priorities and maintain their social connections.
  • To combat isolation, experts recommend consistent contact, noting that "small, repeatable plans" offer the best way to keep friendships going.
  • BetterHelp psychologist Dr. Sreela Roy-Greene notes that relationships often grow quiet without intentional effort, explaining that digital tools can bridge long distances.
  • Maintaining meaningful bonds requires intentional effort rather than waiting for an ideal moment, as experts emphasize that prioritizing interactions is essential for long-term support.
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Journal Gazette & Times-CourierJournal Gazette & Times-Courier
+22 Reposted by 22 other sources
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The friendship recession: Why some adults are struggling to maintain close connections

BetterHelp reports a "friendship recession" among adults due to busy lives, with many feeling lonely despite social interactions.

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  • 87% of the sources are Center
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Winston-Salem Journal broke the news on Monday, October 26, 2026.
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