The growing loneliness of urban life in Dhaka has become an alarming social issue that deserves immediate attention. Although Dhaka is home to more than 20 million people, countless residents today feel emotionally isolated and disconnected from society. Rapid urbanisation, intense academic and professional competition, long working hours, and unbearable traffic congestion have gradually reduced meaningful human interaction in daily life.
According to several global mental health studies, nearly one in every four young people in urban areas experiences loneliness, stress, or anxiety. In Bangladesh, mental health experts have also warned that depression and emotional isolation are rising significantly among students and young professionals. Excessive dependence on social media has further weakened real-life communication, replacing genuine relationships with virtual connections.
In modern city life, neighbours hardly know each other, families spend less quality time together, and elderly people often suffer silently from abandonment and neglect. Unfortunately, mental health awareness remains inadequate, and loneliness is still treated as a personal weakness rather than a serious social concern.
To address this crisis, authorities and citizens must work together to create more community spaces, cultural activities, and mental health support systems. Dhaka's progress should not only be measured through flyovers and skyscrapers, but also through the emotional well-being and social connectedness of its people.
Mysha Siddika
Student, University of Dhaka
mysha292004@gmail.com