Statistics consistently show we are in a loneliness epidemic, with more people reporting having less friends than ever. This is a genuine health concern: an analysis of 90 studies surveying more than 2 million adults linked chronic loneliness with a 14% increase in change of dying early (and social isolation with a 32% increase). Acknowledging this, the WHO recently launched a Commission to address "loneliness as a pressing health threat." Complementary (note, not contrary) research by some scientists has indicated, however, the importance of alone time; the distinction here is that the alone time is chosen and not inadvertent. In this case, people can actually develop a sense of connection. The scientists report that what one does in this alone time as much as how and why one is doing it. It is suggested that chosen solitude can fulfil some of the same needs that are usually met through social relationships, including feeling connected, feeling competent and feeling that you have autonomy. Our thoughts clearly hold power here and how we choose to view our time alone can influence whether its impact on us is positive or negative. I have tried this myself - being conscious of time alone and leaning into the autonomy - and I too felt the positive benefits. The idea here is therefore government-funded campaigns to remind people to protect and cherish *some* of their alone time. These could include some tips on how to be mindful. This could lead to a shift in how we view time alone which ends up being a positive force in shaping our lives, and could be an unexpected way back to a more connected society.