ALMOST a third of young people say that technology such as social media is making them feel lonely, new research has found.

A report found 30 per cent of 18 to 24-year-olds quizzed said technology such as social media is causing them to feel lonely as it has replaced face-to-face contact.

The study found loneliness impacts on the mental health of many young people, with more than two-thirds (67 per cent) saying it worsened as a result of feeling lonely.

More than half (51 per cent) of those questioned for the Mental Health Foundation research said they experience depression when they feel lonely, with 42 per cent saying it leads to anxiety.

With 2018 being Scotland’s Year of Young People, the Mental Health Foundation warned too many young adults are struggling with mental health problems and is urging immediate action.

Isabella Goldie, director of development and delivery at the charity, said: “Loneliness among younger people is hugely under-reported but our research is clear that social isolation affects the mental health of young people more than any other age group.

“Our children are finding life harder to navigate than previous generations and, worryingly, they are living with high levels of distress.

“Relationships and social connections remain at the heart of what makes and breaks our mental health.

“A child’s ability to communicate and form relationships is vital right from the point that they enter the education system if they are to thrive at school.

“If the Scottish Government is serious about making 2018 the Year of Young People, then it must place health and wellbeing at the heart of the school curriculum.

The research suggests the stigma of loneliness remains the greatest barrier to seeking help as 46 per cent said they would be too embarrassed to talk about it and 52 per cent feel they ought to cope with the problem themselves.