In recent years, the issue of social isolation among Generation Z has gained significant attention, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. As young people increasingly turn to surfing as a means of social connection, initiatives like Hinge’s One More Hour are emerging to combat loneliness and foster community.
Key Takeaways
- Social Isolation Epidemic: Gen Z spends 70% less time with friends compared to 2003, leading to increased loneliness.
- Surfing as a Solution: Groups like Intersxtn Surf are helping young people build friendships through shared surfing experiences.
- Hinge’s Initiative: The dating app has invested in community-building efforts to address social isolation among young adults.
The Loneliness Epidemic
The Surgeon General’s 2023 report highlighted a troubling trend: individuals aged 15-24 are spending nearly 1,000 fewer hours per year with friends than their peers did two decades ago. This alarming statistic underscores the growing epidemic of loneliness, particularly among Gen Z, who have faced unique challenges during the pandemic.
Surfing: A Community Builder
Surfing has emerged as a powerful antidote to social isolation. For many, it offers both individual enjoyment and communal experiences. Groups like Intersxtn Surf, which focuses on empowering women of color, provide a supportive environment for young people to connect.
Genesy Mendez, a 29-year-old elementary school teacher from Los Angeles, found solace in the surf community. Initially nervous about joining, she discovered that the experience was transformative. “I felt seen by the other people in it,” she shared, emphasizing the importance of connection in overcoming social anxiety.
Hinge’s One More Hour Initiative
Recognizing the impact of loneliness on their user base, Hinge partnered with the Foundation for Social Connection to launch the One More Hour initiative. This program aims to encourage young people to spend more time with friends and engage in real-life social activities.
Hinge has invested $1 million in various community groups across major cities, including Atlanta, Los Angeles, and New York. These groups range from art collectives to filmmaking clubs, all designed to foster meaningful connections.
Overcoming Barriers to Connection
Despite the positive outcomes, many young people face emotional barriers when it comes to socializing. Concerns about fitting in and finding the right group can deter individuals from participating in community activities. Hinge’s research indicates that these emotional hurdles are often more significant than logistical challenges like cost or time.
Josh Penny, Hinge’s Director of Social Innovation, noted that the skills required for in-person interactions differ from those used online. “They just need to build these muscles,” he explained, highlighting the importance of practice in developing social skills.
The Future of Social Connection
While the One More Hour initiative is a step in the right direction, it remains to be seen how far-reaching its impact will be. With a vast population of Gen Z individuals, the challenge of addressing loneliness is immense. However, the success stories of participants like Mendez offer hope.
Mendez’s journey illustrates the potential of surfing to create lasting friendships and foster a sense of belonging. As she continues to engage with her surf group, she has also expanded her social circle, joining a running group and even dating someone outside the surfing community.
In a world increasingly dominated by digital interactions, initiatives that promote real-life connections, like surfing, may hold the key to alleviating the loneliness epidemic among Gen Z. By encouraging young people to step outside their comfort zones and engage with others, we can help them ride the wave of connection and community.
Sources
- Surfing her way out of the social anxiety shared by many in Gen Z : Shots – Health News : NPR, NPR.
- Surfing identified as curing loneliness amongst ultra-isolated Gen-Z – BeachGrit, BeachGrit.
- Could Surfing Solve Gen Z Social Anxiety?, SURFER Magazine.
- Could Surfing Solve Gen Z Social Anxiety?, MSN.
