An old adage holds that if you want a friend in Washington, you’re best off getting a dog. Often (and incorrectly!) attributed to President Truman, the saying gets at the tenuous nature of political relationships—and also a deeper truth about everyday life in the nation’s capital.
Namely, living here can sometimes be awfully lonely.
Two years ago, the product-research firm Chamber of Commerce declared the District to be “America’s loneliest city,” a ranking rooted in a single metric: 48.6 percent of our households consist of one person, the highest number in the nation. While that arguably isn’t enough to label DC as Lonelytown, USA, it’s not a stretch to say this is a place where it’s easy to feel socially disconnected.
After all, we’re a city of ambitious transplants and coming-and-going strivers. Of people more likely to ask What You Do than to learn about Who You Are. Of workaholic news junkies perpetually checking our phones for the next big scoop or five-alarm billable-hours inbox fire. From our offices to our happy hours to rush hour on the Red Line, we’re continually surrounded by people yet too often emotionally alone.
This can be a problem. In recent years, experts have been sounding the alarm about the deleterious effects of disconnection—in fact, former surgeon general Vivek Murthy declared loneliness to be a national public-health epidemic, linking it to greater risk of mental-health issues, physical diseases, and even death. (Studies suggest the mortality impact of social disconnection is similar to smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day.) In response, lawmakers on Capitol Hill have introduced legislation aimed at addressing the problem.
But what about in your own life? If you’re feeling isolated or alone at times, this section can help. Inside, you’ll learn more about where to meet people, how to find professional help, and even how to make your solo time more enriching. You can always get a dog, too—but thankfully, there are plenty of other ways for Washingtonians to connect.
I Felt Lonely in DC. Was Joining a Social Group the Answer?
I set out to make new friends—and to better understand how we end up lonely in the first place.
25 Places To Make New Friends Around DC
Whether you’re new in town or looking to expand your circle, bonding over a shared interest is a tried-and-true strategy for making friends.
3 DC-Area Social Groups to Make New Connections
Reenergize your social life with one of these social clubs.
How Washingtonians Made Friends in the City
Readers share their friendship meet-cutes.
9 Tips on How to Find the Right Therapist
Finding a therapist can be a challenge, but these clinician-approved tips are a great place to start.
Is Teletherapy Right for You?
Counseling is more accessible than ever. That doesn’t mean it’s good for everyone. Here are five things to consider.
5 Ways to Strengthen Your Relationship With Yourself
How to make the most of your solo time.
6 Relaxing Solo Date Ideas Around the DC Area
Have a lovely dinner, spa day, or stroll.
Bills and Pills: How Congress and Science Could Make the Future Less Lonely
How potential new legislation and medicine may ease loneliness.
