Hundreds of thousands of Utahns suffer with chronic loneliness, study finds
Sep 9, 2025, 9:05 PM
(Canva)
(Canva)
SALT LAKE CITY — A recent study by A Mission for Michael found that 218,625 Utahns are living with constant loneliness.
Per Cigna Healthcare, chronic loneliness is characterized by feeling social isolation for a long time. It may be accompanied by low self esteem, self-doubt or social anxiety and can impact anyone, even those who appear to be outgoing.
A Mission for Michael used data from county health rankings and answers to a survey it conducted to distill the results.
“Loneliness can feel overwhelming, and for some people it becomes a constant state rather than an occasional feeling,” Anand Mehta, the executive director for A Mission for Michael said.
The study also revealed the counties that have the most chronic loneliness:
- San Juan: 9.3%
- Tooele: 9%
- Carbon: 8.5%
- Grand: 8.5%
- Piute: 8.5%
On the contrary, Summit County showed the lowest chronic loneliness rate, with just 6.8%. Here is a ranking of the counties with the lowest rates:
- Summit: 6.8%
- Morgan: 7.5%
- Juab: 7.5%
- Iron: 7.5%
- Weber: 7.8%
Mehta said support and treatment for loneliness is important.
“With the right care, people can find new ways to connect, build healthier coping strategies, and feel supported in a way that makes a real difference,” Mehta said.
How to support someone struggling with chronic loneliness
The National Academy for Social Prescribing, which is based in the United Kingdom, said the first step to supporting someone struggling with chronic loneliness is checking in.
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While some cases may appear obvious, asking someone if they’re experiencing loneliness can encourage them to open up, or help them realize their level of suffering.
Asking the person how you can best support them can help, too.
The NASP said sometimes it may take time for the person to open up. In those cases, take baby steps and be patient with them while respecting boundaries they may set.
Sharing stories about times when you felt lonely may also help.
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