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Meeting friends from college during the holidays elicited a familiar atmosphere of routine and disconnection. As they caught up, they realized everyone was experiencing a similar sense of isolation despite the different paths they had taken. Many exchanged stories of lives centered around work, solitary gym sessions, and personal hobbies, while longing for the vibrant social life that college had once offered. This phenomenon has been dubbed the "Gen Z loneliness epidemic," affecting individuals across various life choices, regardless of their differing cities, careers, or personal interests.