I think a great antidote for this, specifically for people who are lonely, is to move into a multi bedroom apartment with 3+ other people or even find a coliving space. There are some of these on NYC and from my experience it's comparable to living in a dorm - which is the kind of healthy experience the author says he missed most. You get to meet and interact with a variety of people on a daily basis, some of whom could lead to deeper connections. Plus its cheaper than a studio or 1br apartment!!