Loneliness is an epidemic in Australia, affecting at least one-third of adults. The LGBTQIA+ community is contending with a more profound crisis. Research indicates that queer individuals are four-and-a-half times more likely to experience problematic levels of loneliness compared to their heterosexual counterparts. Dr. Robbie Eres was a clinical psychologist and is now a lecturer at Deakin University. This has led her to focus her research on the effects of loneliness among minority groups, underscoring the need for environments that foster support—a dire necessity.
For the past three years, a queer-focused boxing class in Perth has emerged as a beacon of hope for those grappling with feelings of isolation. These free classes, led entirely by volunteers, are held once a month. They are made up of 45 minutes of safe, non-combat boxing, followed by 45 minutes of stimulating group discussion. This rare combination is a win-win for local communities by providing an outlet for improving physical fitness and building social networks among participants.
Dr. Eres also believes deeply in the power of social connections. He’s convinced that getting involved in purposeful, place-based activities is one of the most effective antidotes to loneliness. She is particularly worried that queer Australians are more likely to be lonely than their non-queer counterparts. This highlights how crucial programs such as this boxing class are.
Understanding the Loneliness Epidemic
The numbers behind loneliness are shocking, particularly among those in the LGBTQIA+ community. As Dr. Eres explains, several factors have coalesced to create this disturbing trend. “When you look at some of the factors that are contributing to that, it’s things like lack of family support, lack of sense of belonging, and minority stress — the stress associated with belonging to a minority group,” she explains.
As Dr. Eres explains, loneliness isn’t simply an emotional weight—it’s a health hazard with dire consequences. “It has an impact on our physical health in terms of cardiovascular disease and neurological conditions, but immune responses,” she states. Furthermore, she highlights the mental health consequences: “In terms of our mental health … we see that people who experience more loneliness have higher rates of depression, anxiety, self-harm and suicidality.”
This boxing class does just that, addressing all three barriers of entry. More importantly, it fosters a nonjudgmental space where participants feel free to share their experiences and feelings.
A Unique Approach to Socializing
The queer-minded boxing collective takes inspiration from The Boxing Project’s Queer to Stay program. Founded in 2017, The Boxing Project uses the sport to help build safe spaces for marginalized people. Amy Collins, one of the organizers of the class, shares her vision: “I thought about what other communities might not feel so comfortable or confident walking into a gym, and that’s where I thought a queer boxing class could be a really beautiful way to bring those two things together.”
For participants such as Ms. Frossine, the dual focus of the classes is what makes them highly valuable. She remarks, “It’s a nice space for us to talk about things that are on our mind, things that we haven’t had a chance to talk about with other people in our lives.” This unique blend of physical activity and open, honest dialogue offers something special to foster a sense of belonging among all who come.
“I think gym and sports is really heavily gendered; here’s a space where I’m not checking anyone’s gender ID at the door.” This method gives participants the opportunity to make genuine connections without the scary gym pressures many of us are used to.
Building Connections for Better Health
The free Warrior boxing classes are a great introduction to physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle. They foster the kind of social connection that’s foundational for mental health. In her talk, Dr. Eres encourages deepening relationships that you have with relatives or family friends as another path to addressing loneliness.
“We’re really realizing how scary and dangerous loneliness can be,” she states, urging individuals to take proactive steps toward building social connections. The boxing classes exemplify one such initiative, illustrating how engaging in shared activities can foster lasting friendships and support networks.
Collins articulates the impact of these gatherings: “When I come to classes … I feel confident, I feel powerful, I feel connected.” This sentiment strikes a deep chord with the rest of the participants, as they seek comfort in being part of a community that has experienced their challenges.
Ms. Frossine acknowledges the transformative power of these classes: “I think the project is so, so powerful in the thesis of it — women, queer people, we’re here to take up space, to get stronger, to meet each other.”
