What Is Transient Loneliness And Why Does It Occur?

A: Transient loneliness, also known as “state” or transitional loneliness, is a short-term type of loneliness that occurs when a person experiences a temporary change in their circumstances, environment or relationships.

Even when change is a good thing overall — such as accepting a job promotion — a person may contend with feelings of transient loneliness as they adapt to their new circumstances.

Transient loneliness can come about during any change a person considers to be a significant upheaval, including:

• Relocation to a new city
• New employment or a new job role at a current place of employment
• Becoming a parent
• Separation from family or friends
• Recent break-up or separation
• Divorce
• Graduating from high school or college
• Temporary physical limitations due to health-related issues
• Sudden development of a disability or illness
• Sudden physical or social distancing, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic
• Any other change a person finds to be a significant disruption to their typical routine, including interpersonal conflicts

As a person adapts to change, transient loneliness can motivate them to re-establish existing bonds with others or to create new social connections.

This type of loneliness may be a good thing, serving as a catalyst for personal growth and acceptance of the change.

However, when feelings of loneliness do not abate or worsen over time a person may develop chronic loneliness. This type of loneliness is marked by a long-term inability to make connections with other people and feelings of isolation.

Adults who are dealing with a major transition of some kind are more likely to struggle with social isolation, which is linked to substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts.

For this reason, transient loneliness can become problematic if it develops into chronic or long-term loneliness, although both transient and chronic loneliness can have negative impacts on health.

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If you’re struggling with transient loneliness, we’ve put together resources to meet you wherever you are — whether you want someone to talk to right now, or are looking for longer-term ways to help ease your loneliness.