Th3rdPlace is a peer service that provides emotional support: 1. Book One-on-One peer chat; 2. Participate in peer activities; 3. Share relatable personal stories and resources.

Our concept is simple, we aim to bring people back to one of our most basic human needs — The need for attachment. We are interested in building a sanctuary where people’s souls feel invited to interact, express, and unite.

On loneliness

❗ Problem: We are lonelier than ever, deprived of basic human needs for affiliation, and lack meaningful human relationships, despite apparent progress in economy and technology. It’s not surprising but alarming that mental illnesses (depression, anxiety) and suicides are on the rise, a collective tragedy. Most of us are taught to focus on our individualistic achievements, material gain and fame. As a result, we have lost touch with our authentic selves, with others, with each other, with humankind, and with the world we live in, feeling alienated.

Background:

• In 2018, the UK did a Loneliness Experiment with 55,000 people, and to most people’s surprise, it showed that “Young people (age 16 to 24) are the group who feel loneliest”.
• In 2019, the National College Health Assessment conducted on 58 Canadian campuses showed that 70% of the students reported feeling “very lonely”.
• In the past 10 years, there has been a 5-fold increase in students who disclose mental health issues in the UK, and 94% of the universities have seen an increase in demand for counselling services.
• Physical and Mental Health:
  • Loneliness and social isolation increase the risk of premature death by 26% and 29%, respectively. It is associated with a 29% increased risk of heart disease and a 32% increased risk of stroke.
  • There are significant risks for anxiety, depression, dementia, and suicide.
  • The Surgeon General of the United States highlighted that loneliness is as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

These factors are draining our spirit and energy. But we are not alone, and it’s normal to feel that way. Our new generations are crying for help, but we can work collectively to make a change.

Visit

https://th3rdplace.com/