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Loneliness is the feeling of being alone or isolated, even when you're surrounded by people. It's a sense of not having the connection or companionship you desire.

We don’t need a best friend, a significant other or a big group to feel less lonely. By creating small, but meaningful moments, we can start to build connection in ways that feel safe and manageable. A chat with a neighbour, spending time with people who share our interests or playing with a pet can remind us that we're not alone and that connection can come in many forms.

Join our Loneliness Awareness Week Instagram campaign

During Loneliness Awareness Week (4–10 August 2025), we encourage Autistic people to share those small moments that matter to them and help make them feel less lonely. Share your thoughts or a photo on Instagram and we'll re-share them with our community. #MomentsMatter #LonelinessAwarenessWeekAU

Kana Grace
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Share what makes you feel less lonely on Instagram

Be a part of our new research study on gratitude

While most people may experience loneliness throughout their lifetime, emerging research shows that Autistic adults may experience higher levels of loneliness than non-Autistic people.

Aspect Research Centre for Autism Practice Research Fellows, Dr Ru Ying Cai and Dr Abbey Love are working alongside a team of Autistic advisors to explore the role of gratitude – the practice of noticing and appreciating the positive things in life – and how it might support the wellbeing of Autistic adults.

Research suggests that gratitude practices can help people feel more connected, improve mood and reduce feelings of loneliness. Ru and Abbey are currently developing new resources on this topic and are looking for Autistic adults who are interested in piloting the materials.

If this sounds like something you’d like to be part of, we’d love to hear from you! Please complete this form.

I'd like to learn more about ARCAP's research study exploring gratitude and loneliness among Autistic people. 

Loneliness resources

Our research partner, Ending Loneliness Together has a range of information resources on loneliness, spotting signs of loneliness and how to help someone who is feeling lonely. Visit the Loneliness Awareness Week webpage to register for a free webinar and find out about new resources that will be launched on 4 August.

If you feel lonely and would like support, contact:

Related item

Research study – Exploring loneliness of Autistic adults

We explored the concept of loneliness for Autistic people by developing a first of its kind loneliness measurement tool, which provides a more accurate assessment of loneliness in Autistic individuals and its impact on their mental health and overall wellbeing.

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