Loneliness Within the Family: Having a Family but No Place to Belong - The Reality of "Domestic Loneliness"

Feeling a strong sense of loneliness despite living with family—such "domestic loneliness" is not uncommon. The issue highlighted by WELT as a real-life story from its readers resonates with the voices of those affected on social media and surveys from various countries. Loneliness is not merely a state of being alone; it deepens when one feels "misunderstood," "unheard," or "lacking a place within the home." A survey by Japan's Cabinet Office revealed that about 40% of people feel lonely, with a stronger tendency observed among younger generations. Having family "present" and having hearts "connected" are not the same. What is needed now is a perspective that does not assume the home is a safe haven and puts into words the often invisible loneliness.