Loneliness and isolation are not only incredibly unpleasant experiences, they are also linked to a variety of health problems, including increased risk of premature death. Studies suggest that the effects of loneliness and social isolation are more harmful to your health than smoking 15 cigarettes a day and are nearing obesity as a risk factor for premature death. Today’s rapidly growing dependence on social media is only making the situation worse.
The Harmful Effects of Loneliness
Loneliness is a feeling of disconnection from others, even when people are around. The lonelier someone feels, the less optimistic they become about all aspects of their life. Prolonged or repeated periods of loneliness can negatively impact a person’s mental health and increase their risk of an early death.
Research presented at the American Psychological Association’s 125th annual convention highlighted the fact that being connected to others socially is a fundamental human need, crucial to both well-being and survival. Two meta-analyses carried out by AARP revealed that greater social connection is linked to a 50 percent reduced risk of early death, and that social isolation, loneliness, and living alone all had significant and equal effects on the risk of premature death.
It is estimated that over 42 million adults aged 45 and over in the US suffer from chronic loneliness, and more than 25 percent of the US population lives alone. Similar trends are observed in other countries, such as Australia, with technology causing people to interact less with others, as media becomes the principal communication tool for young people.
Solutions to the Loneliness Epidemic
There are several short-term and long-term strategies that can be employed to counteract the rising epidemic of social isolation and loneliness:
Short-term solutions include:
- Limiting time spent on social media, where there is only the illusion of social interaction.
- Joining a Meet-Up group, gym, church, or other group activity to build regular social interactions into your schedule.
- Reducing time spent on texting and Facebook messaging and instead reaching out to people over the phone or meeting in person for social events, such as getting coffee or going for a walk.
- Improving the quality of relationships with family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers.
Long-term solutions include:
- Introducing social skills training for children in school.
- Having healthcare practitioners include “social connectedness” as part of screening and protocols.
- Maintaining social ties with colleagues after retirement to prevent loneliness.
- Encouraging communities to develop more “shared social spaces” and host planned events catering to all ages and interests.
- Increasing funding for more research into this rapidly growing public health issue to help spur programs for change.
As we strive to improve our overall health and well-being, it is crucial not to overlook the importance of maintaining strong social connections in our lives. Taking steps to combat loneliness and isolation can have significant benefits for our mental health, physical health, and overall happiness.
