The Loneliness Epidemic in Poland
Data, causes, and solutions. What does research say about the biggest public health problem of the decade?
1. Hard Numbers
of young adults feel lonely
cigarettes/day — health equivalent of loneliness
higher risk of heart disease
higher risk of dementia
2. Causes of the Epidemic
Digital Isolation
Social media creates an illusion of connection while replacing real relationships. Algorithms optimize engagement, not happiness.
Remote Work
The pandemic accelerated the remote work trend. 40% of Poles work hybrid or remote — losing natural opportunities for meetings.
Urbanization without Community
Large cities promise abundance of contacts but deliver anonymity. Elevator, metro, office — surrounded by people everywhere, connected nowhere.
Trust Crisis
Social trust in Poland is among the lowest in Europe. We fear strangers — and thereby give up opportunities to build relationships.
3. Social Dining as an Antidote
Shared meals are the oldest and most effective form of building social bonds in human history. From Neanderthal campfires to family Sunday dinners — eating together creates bonds. Metenos brings this ritual to the 21st century: 5 strangers, one table at the best restaurant, no phones, no agenda.
people at the table
hours spent together
relationship possibilities
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people in Poland suffer from loneliness?
65% of young adults report regular feelings of loneliness. Among the general adult population, this figure is 35-40%.
What are the health consequences of loneliness?
Chronic loneliness has comparable health effects to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. It increases the risk of heart disease by 29% and premature death by 26%.