A study from The University of Hong Kong (HKU) has found that people who dwell on feelings of loneliness are much more likely to develop depression. Published in Nature Mental Health, the research sheds light on why loneliness and depression so often go hand in hand—and how breaking the cycle of negative thinking could help prevent mental health struggles.
“Our study looked at how loneliness, rumination, and depression are connected,” explained Professor Tatia M.C. Lee, who led the research.
“We discovered that constantly thinking about feeling alone significantly increases the risk of developing depression. This suggests that addressing loneliness directly could be an effective way to lower depression rates.”
The study followed 900 adults in Hong Kong, Guangzhou, and Fuzhou, China, between 2021 and 2023, during strict COVID-19 lockdowns. Using a network analysis approach, researchers examined how loneliness triggers repetitive negative thoughts—known as rumination—which in turn leads to depression. One particular thought, “thinking about how alone you are,” was identified as a major factor in keeping people stuck in this cycle.
Based on these findings, the researchers suggest that mental health treatments should focus on breaking this loop. By helping people stop dwelling on their loneliness, therapists may be able to reduce the risk of depression, offering a more effective way to support those struggling with isolation.
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