
Research reveals a ‘Disconnection Dilemma&#39; as more people choose isolation over conflict, despite a growing desire for community.


Many Americans say they want stronger connections in their lives but are also pulling

Research reveals a ‘Disconnection Dilemma' as more people choose isolation over conflict, despite a growing desire for community.


Many Americans say they want stronger connections in their lives but are also pulling back from relationships in ways that leave them feeling more disconnected, a new nationwide survey found.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: <a xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" href="https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260422939515/en/" rel="nofollow">https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260422939515/en/</a>
Commissioned by Talkspace and conducted by Talker Research, the survey of 2,000 U.S. adults identifies a ‘Disconnection Dilemma,' a growing trend where the desire for community is being undermined by increased rates of "going no-contact&#34; as well as isolation to avoid difficult conversations.

<ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" class="bwlistdisc">
<li xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
Nearly three-quarters of Americans (73%) say they are more likely to distance themselves from a friend or loved one during difficult moments rather than communicate to resolve issues.

</li>
<li xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
More than one in three Americans (38%) say they've gone "no contact" with a friend or family member in the past year — a figure that rises to 60% among Gen Z.

</li>
<li xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
68% say they struggle to build in-person community, and (47%) say they experience loneliness during a typical day.

</li>
</ul>
Mental Health Awareness Month highlights the need for connection


With Mental Health Awareness Month starting in May, the poll brings renewed attention to how relationships can shape our mental well-being. Social isolation and loneliness put a person at risk of developing serious mental and physical health conditions, <a xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" rel="nofollow" href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fsocial-connectedness%2Frisk-factors%2Findex.html&amp;esheet=54520160&amp;newsitemid=20260422939515&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=the+CDC+warns&amp;index=1&amp;md5=4e5dfed10033c709d4f2a40bcbace566" shape="rect">the CDC warns</a>.


"These results suggest that avoiding relationship challenges is becoming more common, but that approach can come with its own risks, making it harder to sustain meaningful connections over time and leading to more loneliness,&#34; said Dr. Nikole Benders-Hadi, the chief medical officer at Talkspace. &#34;Prioritizing communication, setting healthy boundaries, and staying engaged even when it's uncomfortable can help people preserve the relationships that support their mental wellness."


Technology is making it easier to opt out of interaction


The survey also found that reduced interaction extends beyond close relationships and into daily life, with many Americans turning to technology to limit in-person contact.

<ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" class="bwlistdisc">
<li xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
68% use online ordering, self-checkout kiosks (64%), and chatbots/automated help systems (42%) to reduce their interactions with others.

</li>
<li xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
40% say they would rather cross the street than stop and talk to someone they know.

</li>
<li xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
37% will pretend to take a phone call to avoid small talk.

</li>
</ul>
A widespread desire for connection remains


Despite these trends, many Americans say they want stronger connections and more community in their lives.

<ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" class="bwlistdisc">
<li xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
Nearly one-third (31%) say they want to become more involved in local community-building and activities.

</li>
<li xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
Barriers to these social connections include social anxiety (30%), preferring to spend time alone (30%), or feeling like they don't fit in (26%).

</li>
<li xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
When asked what defines a healthy relationship, respondents pointed to emotional safety and mutual support — such as feeling comfortable expressing their thoughts and opinions (47%) and feeling seen and understood (41%).

</li>
</ul>
The launch of <a xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" rel="nofollow" href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.talkspace.com%2Fmental-health-awareness-month&amp;esheet=54520160&amp;newsitemid=20260422939515&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=Connection+is+Crucial%2C&amp;index=2&amp;md5=92dc7714292bd0906ce31b805e8f688e" shape="rect">Connection is Crucial,</a> Talkspace's 2026 Mental Health Awareness Month campaign, celebrates the power of interpersonal connections and shares <a xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" rel="nofollow" href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.talkspace.com%2Fblog%2Fconnection-and-mental-health%2F&amp;esheet=54520160&amp;newsitemid=20260422939515&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=expert+advice+on+how+to+strengthen+bonds+for+improved+mental+well-being&amp;index=3&amp;md5=6341bbe97b944c35a52d6b0e207e8391" shape="rect">expert advice on how to strengthen bonds for improved mental well-being</a>.


See <a xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" rel="nofollow" href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Ftalkerresearch.com%2Floneliness-rises-as-americans-seek-deeper-community-ties%2F&amp;esheet=54520160&amp;newsitemid=20260422939515&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=here&amp;index=4&amp;md5=3feefe45017fe7aae03b2a55a2bb85fd" shape="rect">here</a> for a deeper look at the Talker survey results.


About Talkspace


Talkspace (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/TALK">TALK</a>) is a virtual behavioral healthcare provider committed to helping people lead healthier lives through access to mental healthcare. Talkspace offers therapy for individuals, teens, and couples, as well as psychiatric treatment and medication management for adults.


Members are matched with licensed therapists and can engage in live video, audio, or chat sessions, as well as asynchronous messaging. Services are delivered through a secure web and mobile platform that meets HIPAA and regulatory requirements.


Many Americans have access to Talkspace through health insurance plans, employee assistance programs, or as a benefit through an employer, school, or government program.


For more information, visit <a xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" rel="nofollow" href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.talkspace.com%2F&amp;esheet=54520160&amp;newsitemid=20260422939515&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=www.talkspace.com&amp;index=5&amp;md5=9313a26d56c43381d01793e3c727effa" shape="rect">www.talkspace.com</a>.

<img xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" alt="" src="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=bwnews&amp;sty=20260422939515r1&amp;sid=benz2&amp;distro=nx&amp;lang=en" style="width:0;height:0"></img>View source version on businesswire.com: <a xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" href="https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260422939515/en/" rel="nofollow">https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260422939515/en/</a>
<a xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" rel="nofollow" href="mailto:press@talkspace.com" shape="rect">press@talkspace.com</a>

TALK

Americans Feel Increasingly Alone Despite Craving Connection, New Survey Finds

Survey Reveals Growing Isolation Yet Demand for Connection in Mental Health

<section class="insight" data-version="1">
 <section data-block="information">
 <h3>Information</h3>
 Research reveals a ‘Disconnection Dilemma&amp;#39; as more people choose isolation over conflict, despite a growing desire for community.


Many Americans say they want stronger connections in their lives but are also pulling
 </section>

 <section data-block="ai-summary-paragraph">
 <h3>AI Summary</h3>
 Recent survey data indicates a growing trend of isolation among Americans despite a strong desire for community connection. The findings, commissioned by Talkspace, underscore potential growth opportunities in mental health services as societal needs evolve towards addressing loneliness and relational challenges.
 </section>

 <section data-block="ai-summary-bullets">
 <h3>Key Points</h3>
 <ul><li>A survey reveals rising isolation despite a desire for connection.</li><li>73% of Americans prefer distancing over resolving conflicts.</li><li>38% of respondents experienced &#039;no contact&#039; with loved ones last year.</li><li>68% struggle to build in-person communities, affecting mental wellness.</li><li>Talkspace&#039;s campaign emphasizes the importance of interpersonal connections.</li></ul>
 </section>

 <section data-block="companies-mentioned">
 <h3>Companies Mentioned</h3>
 <ul><li>Talkspace (TALK): Innovative mental health solutions align with survey insights on societal needs.</li></ul>
 </section>

 <section data-block="category">
 <h3>Corporate Developments</h3>
 This article fits under &#039;Corporate Developments&#039; as it highlights Talkspace&#039;s role in addressing mental health issues through community engagement initiatives. The emphasis on mental health aligns with rising public awareness and demand for virtual therapy services, positioning TALK favorably in the market.
 </section>

 <section data-block="market-moving">
 <h3>Market-Moving</h3>
 <ul><li>Talkspace&#039;s survey findings may boost visibility and demand for its services.</li><li>Increased focus on mental health could lead to more partnerships or usage growth.</li><li>Heightened awareness during Mental Health Awareness Month can drive user engagement.</li><li>Potential growth in the telehealth sector may positively impact TALK&#039;s revenue.</li></ul>
 </section>

 <section data-block="key-facts">
 <h3>Key Facts</h3>
 <ul><li>Survey included 2,000 U.S. adults, highlighting national trends.</li><li>38% had &#039;no contact&#039; with loved ones in the past year, rising to 60% in Gen Z.</li><li>73% of Americans choose distancing over difficult conversations.</li><li>68% report struggles in building in-person communities.</li><li>Talkspace offers a broad range of mental health services via technology.</li></ul>
 </section>

 <section data-block="trading-thesis">
 <h3>Trading Thesis</h3>
 TALK is likely to see increased demand for its services amid rising mental health concerns.
 </section>
</section>



Research reveals a ‘Disconnection Dilemma' as more people choose isolation over conflict, despite a growing desire for community.


Many Americans say they want stronger connections in their lives but are also pulling back from relationships in ways that leave them feeling more disconnected, a new nationwide survey found.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: <a xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" href="https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260422939515/en/" rel="nofollow">https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260422939515/en/</a>
Commissioned by Talkspace and conducted by Talker Research, the survey of 2,000 U.S. adults identifies a ‘Disconnection Dilemma,' a growing trend where the desire for community is being undermined by increased rates of "going no-contact&#34; as well as isolation to avoid difficult conversations.

<ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" class="bwlistdisc">
<li xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
Nearly three-quarters of Americans (73%) say they are more likely to distance themselves from a friend or loved one during difficult moments rather than communicate to resolve issues.

</li>
<li xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
More than one in three Americans (38%) say they've gone "no contact" with a friend or family member in the past year — a figure that rises to 60% among Gen Z.

</li>
<li xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
68% say they struggle to build in-person community, and (47%) say they experience loneliness during a typical day.

</li>
</ul>
Mental Health Awareness Month highlights the need for connection


With Mental Health Awareness Month starting in May, the poll brings renewed attention to how relationships can shape our mental well-being. Social isolation and loneliness put a person at risk of developing serious mental and physical health conditions, <a xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" rel="nofollow" href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fsocial-connectedness%2Frisk-factors%2Findex.html&amp;esheet=54520160&amp;newsitemid=20260422939515&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=the+CDC+warns&amp;index=1&amp;md5=4e5dfed10033c709d4f2a40bcbace566" shape="rect">the CDC warns</a>.


"These results suggest that avoiding relationship challenges is becoming more common, but that approach can come with its own risks, making it harder to sustain meaningful connections over time and leading to more loneliness,&#34; said Dr. Nikole Benders-Hadi, the chief medical officer at Talkspace. &#34;Prioritizing communication, setting healthy boundaries, and staying engaged even when it's uncomfortable can help people preserve the relationships that support their mental wellness."


Technology is making it easier to opt out of interaction


The survey also found that reduced interaction extends beyond close relationships and into daily life, with many Americans turning to technology to limit in-person contact.

<ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" class="bwlistdisc">
<li xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
68% use online ordering, self-checkout kiosks (64%), and chatbots/automated help systems (42%) to reduce their interactions with others.

</li>
<li xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
40% say they would rather cross the street than stop and talk to someone they know.

</li>
<li xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
37% will pretend to take a phone call to avoid small talk.

</li>
</ul>
A widespread desire for connection remains


Despite these trends, many Americans say they want stronger connections and more community in their lives.

<ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" class="bwlistdisc">
<li xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
Nearly one-third (31%) say they want to become more involved in local community-building and activities.

</li>
<li xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
Barriers to these social connections include social anxiety (30%), preferring to spend time alone (30%), or feeling like they don't fit in (26%).

</li>
<li xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
When asked what defines a healthy relationship, respondents pointed to emotional safety and mutual support — such as feeling comfortable expressing their thoughts and opinions (47%) and feeling seen and understood (41%).

</li>
</ul>
The launch of <a xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" rel="nofollow" href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.talkspace.com%2Fmental-health-awareness-month&amp;esheet=54520160&amp;newsitemid=20260422939515&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=Connection+is+Crucial%2C&amp;index=2&amp;md5=92dc7714292bd0906ce31b805e8f688e" shape="rect">Connection is Crucial,</a> Talkspace's 2026 Mental Health Awareness Month campaign, celebrates the power of interpersonal connections and shares <a xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" rel="nofollow" href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.talkspace.com%2Fblog%2Fconnection-and-mental-health%2F&amp;esheet=54520160&amp;newsitemid=20260422939515&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=expert+advice+on+how+to+strengthen+bonds+for+improved+mental+well-being&amp;index=3&amp;md5=6341bbe97b944c35a52d6b0e207e8391" shape="rect">expert advice on how to strengthen bonds for improved mental well-being</a>.


See <a xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" rel="nofollow" href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Ftalkerresearch.com%2Floneliness-rises-as-americans-seek-deeper-community-ties%2F&amp;esheet=54520160&amp;newsitemid=20260422939515&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=here&amp;index=4&amp;md5=3feefe45017fe7aae03b2a55a2bb85fd" shape="rect">here</a> for a deeper look at the Talker survey results.


About Talkspace


Talkspace (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/TALK">TALK</a>) is a virtual behavioral healthcare provider committed to helping people lead healthier lives through access to mental healthcare. Talkspace offers therapy for individuals, teens, and couples, as well as psychiatric treatment and medication management for adults.


Members are matched with licensed therapists and can engage in live video, audio, or chat sessions, as well as asynchronous messaging. Services are delivered through a secure web and mobile platform that meets HIPAA and regulatory requirements.


Many Americans have access to Talkspace through health insurance plans, employee assistance programs, or as a benefit through an employer, school, or government program.


For more information, visit <a xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" rel="nofollow" href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.talkspace.com%2F&amp;esheet=54520160&amp;newsitemid=20260422939515&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=www.talkspace.com&amp;index=5&amp;md5=9313a26d56c43381d01793e3c727effa" shape="rect">www.talkspace.com</a>.

<img xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" alt="" src="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=bwnews&amp;sty=20260422939515r1&amp;sid=benz2&amp;distro=nx&amp;lang=en" style="width:0;height:0"></img>View source version on businesswire.com: <a xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" href="https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260422939515/en/" rel="nofollow">https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260422939515/en/</a>
<a xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" rel="nofollow" href="mailto:press@talkspace.com" shape="rect">press@talkspace.com</a>

Recent survey data indicates a growing trend of isolation among Americans despite a strong desire for community connection. The findings, commissioned by Talkspace, underscore potential growth opportunities in mental health services as societal needs evolve towards addressing loneliness and relational challenges.

Americans Feel Increasingly Alone Despite Craving Connection, New Survey Finds

AI Summary

Sentiment Rationale

Trading Thesis

Market-Moving

Key Facts

Companies Mentioned

Corporate Developments

Related News