So there is a loneliness epidemic caused by capitalist alienation. However, I wonder if lack of material conditions also adds to this. I just keep seeing lots of my broke guy friends depressed because they can’t find a partner and it is so hard for them to meet new people. This makes me wonder if their financial situation is the main reason.
I imagine it would at least making working on yourself feasible, which might be enough. I can't count the number of times I've had to put some kind of self-improvement on the back burner because of the pressing need to focus on becoming more employable. I think having more free time and energy would do wonders for people's personal development.
what kind of self-improvement had to go on the back burner?
Reading theory for starters. For long stretches of time, I just don't have the mental bandwidth. Working, trying to find a new job, etc seem to leave me mentally drained more and more frequently.
Learning new things, developing hobbies, meeting new people. Going to the gym regularly or eating healthier. I have limited time and energy at the best of times.
For a recent example: I opted out of a reading and discussion group I'm really interested in, in favor of reading and learning about writing resumes and doing better in job interviews.