Why We're Feeling Lonely

by Shelby Abbott

Explore common causes of loneliness among young adults and how being rooted in God’s design for relationships and community brings healing.

According to Forbes, 73% of young adults feel alone sometimes or always.

But Christians have the opportunity to find genuine community and friendships. When you live life for Jesus, you have the ultimate comfort that he’s always alongside you. So why are you still feeling lonely?

In this short, punchy book, you’ll explore specific reasons you and many others in Gen Z are fighting loneliness even as Christians. After each compelling diagnosis of what fuels detachment, you’ll unpack a solution rooted in God’s design for relationships and community.

You’ll

How a better grasp of the gospel gives you an authentic sense of self in a world of filtered digital identities How gospel friendships are an antidote to porn and a casual attitude to sex How gospel empathy strengthens relationships in a culture of polarization and anger. How gospel involvement can help heal feelings of depression and anxiety. Why We’re Feeling Lonely (and What We Can Do About It) is written by Shelby Abbot, who has served in ministries for young adults for over 2 decades.

Audible Audio

Published January 1, 2026

About the author

Shelby Abbott is an author, campus minister, and conference speaker on staff with the ministry of Cru. His passion for university students has led him to speak at college campuses all over the United States and author the books Jacked, I Am A Tool (To Help With Your Dating Life), and Pressure Points: A Guide to Navigating Student Stress (New Growth Press). He and his wife Rachael have two daughters and reside in Downingtown, Pennsylvania.