Loneliness & Modern Life: A Conversation With Henry Venter

My guest on the podcast is Dr. Henry Venter. Henry is a licensed clinical psychologist and professor of psychology. He is currently the Program Director for the Master of Arts Human Behavioral Psychology Program and Professor of Psychology at National University (https://www.nu.edu⁠). Dr. Venter’s research focuses on the rising mental health issues among young adults, including the increasing rates of loneliness, and the role that declining meaning and purpose has in undermining happiness and fulfillment in life. By current estimates, up to 25% of young people in the USA are suffering from loneliness, a lack of purpose and meaning accompanied by a type of general resignation and withdrawal into a digitally mediated world. Today’s podcast focussed on the nature of this loneliness, its causes and impacts – especially social media and excessive online life, and how modern life is creating the conditions for social disconnection, disengagement and lowered wellbeing - especially for youth. Henry suggests what needs to be done, specifically that young people seek therapy, coaching or mentoring to help them and to do this proactively before they may become unwell. He urges any type of exercise, playing sport or just ‘moving’ - engaging in activities outside the home. He also emphasises the importance of interacting with real people in real life situations, especially sharing common interests in clubs or shared pursuits. He is a voice of calm reasoned optimism and practicality in the face of great need.