Is there a correlation between loneliness and substance abuse?

A number of studies conducted at universities across the country have explored this question and the results have been consistent. Loneliness is one of the most uncomfortable states for human beings. Lonely people will seek every avenue to avoid this state. If the subjects suffer from additional problems like shyness, lack of self esteem, etc. there is every likelihood they will turn to one form or another of substance abuse to escape the feelings of loneliness rather than reaching out and becoming involved with other people to resolve the problem. See the Florida State University report "THE ROLE OF LONELINESS IN THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SOCIAL ANXIETY AND SUBSTANCE USE" (http://etd.lib.fsu.edu/theses/available/etd-09222009-085607/unrestricted/Riccardi_C_Thesis_2009.pdf) for a good discussion of this phenomenon.