Yvonne Barnes-Holmes says that the level of suffering created by a lack of social interaction is just beginning to emerge.

In the most interconnected period in history people are lonelier than ever writes Senator and GP Keith Swanick.

We gave little thought to the psychological and emotional stresses of Storm Emma’s enforced isolation, writes Stephanie Regan.

Loneliness is as prevalent in the young as it is in the old, it just manifests itself differently, writes Dr Keith Swanick.

“Actually admitting that we would be happier in a relationship seems to be an emotional hot potato,” says Rena Maycock.

Social media keeps us connected to each another but disconnected from the truth.

The rules of engagement for dating, both in Ireland and around the world, have changed.

Irish sports clubs, and in particular the GAA, have been immeasurable helpful in warmly welcoming young people from diverse backgrounds.

Hoarding is far from rare, and yet it remains largely misunderstood.

Ending a relationship at this time of year can magnify the perception that everyone else is having a great time with their loved ones.

Spare a thought for those who will be on their own over the holiday period – this can be one of the worst times of the year.

Some great strides have been made in this country in recent years to tackle mental health issues, but let’s make sure all people in society are cared for.

In our haste to condemn all things Facebook and Twitter, let’s not forget they also present huge opportunities for realising we are not alone in our struggles.

It has been a brutal, punishing year for many people across this country. As we enter a new year, let’s focus on one another again and take the responsibility to lead others through this darkness and out the other side, writes Gareth O’Callaghan.

Everyone needs to feel wanted and remembered, but many older people are being left isolated because of rapid economic, social and technological changes, writes Anne Dempsey.

IFTA Rising Star winner, Gerard Barrett, says people in Ireland don’t talk enough about how they feel – which can lead to tragedy. In making his award-winning movie, Pilgrim Hill, for just €4500, he lifted the lid on loneliness experienced by country farmers.