When the loneliness epidemic becomes a public health challenge
Though some people require more social interaction than others, humans are social beings. If we don’t have a sense of community or lack a feeling of belonging, it can have negative health effects. It also threatens public health, as outlined in a 2023 Office of the US Surgeon General advisory.
Loneliness and social isolation: a growing concern
A recent study published by the American Medical Association found that 29.2% of adults aged 50 to 80 said they felt isolated from others “some of the time” or “often” in 2024. This was out of 2,051 to 2,576 respondents included in the survey. Loneliness was most common among people not working, those living alone, and individuals with lower household incomes. For those who reported a high rate of loneliness, they were also more likely to cope with social isolation.
How loneliness impacts health
Persistent feelings of loneliness or social isolation can impact our mood and emotions, cause symptoms of anxiety and depression, and also increase our risk of other health conditions, including heart disease and dementia.
The impact on mortality
Loneliness has a similar effect to smoking up to 15 cigarettes per day and has a greater risk than obesity or physical inactivity, according to the US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy. It may also lead to premature death.
Tips for finding community and feeling less lonely
If you are feeling lonely, you are not alone. According to the advisory from the surgeon general, about half of US adults reported feeling lonely in recent years.
Make meaningful connections
Feeling “connected” can vary based on an individual’s life, but often comes through things like talking with someone and feeling like the other person understands you, having an enjoyable experience with someone else, or doing an act of kindness for someone and feeling good about the fact that you made someone else feel good.
Take action
You can join a club or group around something you genuinely like to do, or a support group, possibly even an in-person group in your area through the National Alliance on Mental Illness. If you have symptoms of anxiety or depression, you could also consider therapy from a professional who can make sure your needs are being met.
Conclusion
Loneliness is a growing public health challenge that requires immediate awareness and action. It is essential to recognize the impact it can have on our health and well-being, as well as the importance of social connections in our lives. By understanding the factors that contribute to loneliness and taking steps to build meaningful connections, we can work towards a healthier, more connected society.
FAQs
Q: What are the factors that contribute to loneliness?
A: Factors that contribute to loneliness may include shrinking social networks, increased social media use, and people feeling polarized from each other due to differing ideologies.
Q: Who is most at risk of loneliness?
A: Older adults, young people, people with poor health, single parents, people who live alone, those with lower household incomes, and people with a disability may be at higher risk of loneliness.
Q: What are some ways to cope with loneliness?
A: Some ways to cope with loneliness include joining a club or group around something you genuinely like to do, joining a support group, and considering therapy from a professional who can make sure your needs are being met.
