Loneliness is a recognized problem amongst the elderly, but it is fast becoming a serious concern
amongst the younger generation. Despite social media and friends on face book being an integral
part of their existence, chronic loneliness has been described as the silent plague that is hurting
young people more than any other age group (Gil, 2014). In the light of the recent acknowledgement
that Canada’s mental health service is already failing to care for large numbers of young people,
many mental health organizations have turned to digital communication systems to reach vulnerable
youth. Although this generation is more digitally connected than any previous cohort, using a digital
communication channel to treat loneliness and depression seems counterintuitive. Taking a systems
and design thinking approach, this study takes a critical look at the potential causes and complex
issues surrounding chronic loneliness, and the link to depression and mental illness for young
people, to inform potential preventative interventions.