How much loneliness are you experiencing?

The UCLA Loneliness Scale was developed by Daniel Russell at the University of California. Version 3, published in 1996, is the most widely used loneliness research scale globally, with validated translations in more than 30 languages.

Unlike other scales, the UCLA measures loneliness as a subjective experience of disconnection — not the number of relationships or frequency of social contact. It evaluates 20 aspects of the experience of connection and disconnection with others.

Limitation: the scale doesn't distinguish between different types of loneliness (social, emotional, existential) or between situational and chronic loneliness. The total score is an orientative indicator.

Orientative 4 minutes · Private · we store nothing

UCLA Loneliness Scale v3

Developed by Russell (1996), version 3 of the UCLA Loneliness Scale is the most widely used instrument worldwide for measuring loneliness as a subjective experience.

Validated by: Russell (1996)

1. How often do you feel that you are "in tune" with the people around you?
2. How often do you feel that you lack companionship?
3. How often do you feel that there is no one you can turn to?
4. How often do you feel alone?
5. How often do you feel part of a group of friends?
6. How often do you feel that you have a lot in common with the people around you?
7. How often do you feel that you are no longer close to anyone?
8. How often do you feel that your interests and ideas are not shared by those around you?
9. How often do you feel outgoing and friendly?
10. How often do you feel close to people?
11. How often do you feel left out?
12. How often do you feel that your relationships with others are not meaningful?
13. How often do you feel that no one really knows you well?
14. How often do you feel isolated from others?
15. How often do you feel you can find companionship when you want it?
16. How often do you feel that there are people who really understand you?
17. How often do you feel shy?
18. How often do you feel that people are around you but not with you?
19. How often do you feel that there are people you can talk to?
20. How often do you feel that there are people you can turn to?
References

Frequently asked questions

Is loneliness the same as being alone?

No. You can be surrounded by people and feel deeply lonely, or be alone without feeling loneliness. It's a subjective experience of disconnection, not an objective state.

Does loneliness affect physical health?

Yes. Holt-Lunstad's research (2015) found loneliness increases mortality by 26-32% and affects the immune system, sleep, and inflammatory markers.

Can chronic loneliness be addressed?

Yes. CBT, support groups, and social skills work have evidence. Quality of connections matters more than quantity.

Are my answers stored?

No. The test runs entirely in your browser.