APS Response to the Inquiry into the Prevalence, Causes and Impacts of Loneliness in New South Wales

The Australian Psychological Society (APS) responded to the NSW Legislative Council's Inquiry into the Prevalence, Causes, and Impacts of Loneliness in NSW, highlighting its widespread presence and the high-risk groups—particularly young people, First Nations people and those in rural areas. The APS stressed that loneliness predicts declines in mental, physical, and cognitive health, and is associated with higher health service use making it a critical target for public health intervention.

The APS advocated for consistent data collection and a comprehensive NSW Loneliness Strategy, co-designed with community and expert input. This strategy should deliver a multi-component, state-wide response focused on evidence-based prevention, early intervention and targeted support. The APS also highlighted the vital role of psychologists in reducing loneliness, improving health outcomes, lowering healthcare costs and enhancing community wellbeing.

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