Here are the top 3 ways Americans deal with loneliness—none of them involve reaching out to other people

May 21, 2026 - 00:35

More than half of American adults say they turn to TV, movies, or music when loneliness sets in, according to a new survey. The findings reveal a striking pattern: rather than reaching out to another person, most people prefer to retreat into entertainment, hobbies, or solitary routines.

The survey, which polled over 2,000 adults, found that the most common coping strategy is passive screen time. About 58 percent of respondents said they put on a show or listen to music to distract themselves. The second most popular response is diving into a hobby, such as reading, cooking, or gardening. Roughly 45 percent of people said they use creative or hands-on activities to fill the emotional gap. The third method is physical movement, with 38 percent reporting they go for a walk, exercise, or clean the house.

Mental health experts note that these strategies are not necessarily bad. Distraction can provide a temporary break from painful feelings. Hobbies and exercise also offer genuine benefits, like reducing stress and boosting mood. However, the data suggests a reluctance to seek human connection. Only about one in five people said they would call or text a friend when lonely.

Psychologists warn that avoiding social contact can deepen isolation over time. While watching a movie alone is fine occasionally, they recommend pairing solitary activities with small social steps, like joining a club or scheduling a regular phone call. The key is to use alone time as a reset, not a permanent solution.