Loneliness: A National Health Crisis. 10 Alarming Health Effects of the Chronic Loneliness Epidemic in America

The feeling of loneliness is nothing to be ashamed of. The Loneliness Epidemic is reported to affect nearly 1 in 4 adults, according to recent surveys. It affects 25% to 60% of older Americans and puts millions of Americans 50 and over at risk of poor health from prolonged loneliness. 

BY: GUY JABBAR

Loneliness has risen globally, and it’s now being declared a health risk. Its existence has been around since the dawn of humanity. We were created to socialize with each other — to “connect” and exchange thoughts, stories, and ideas with one another. However, with the lives of modern human beings constantly changing, people are lonelier today than they’ve ever been.

U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy sounded the alarm on the effect chronic loneliness can have on people’s health. A report released from his office revealed that social isolation can be as deadly as smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day.

According to leading health experts, it’s reported that 33% of adults are lonely. But the fact of the matter is, in comparison, being alone and feeling lonely is not the same.

You can feel lonely even if you’re physically with other people, or you can enjoy solitude without feeling lonely.

The Evolution of Mankind

We have drifted culturally from primitive tribes, clans, and communities where we actually shared in each other’s lives.

Now, social cohesion is dissolving, and we’ve evolved to selfish unattached individuals who only care about ourselves. 

Even the concept or the idea of family today, is becoming less attractive in these modern times.   

Additionally, contributing to the loneliness epidemic, the rising inflated social issues, individualism, and the advancements in technology over decades, has also impacted people becoming lonelier and disconnected with others. 

Today, most of us don’t associate or communicate with any of our neighbors. It seems sad when you actually say it out loud, but for most of us — it’s our new reality!

“It’s NOT going to work all by itself! There needs to be if society is going to hold itself together — that sense of social cohesion in which each of us as part of a community says, ‘I got a responsibility to this!’ I care about this society and I’m part of this!”

RUSHWORTH KIDDER — We’re made for each other! There is a sense that society matters, because we’re part of it and we need to participate in it.

“Human beings were made for each other!” Kidder describes loneliness as an unpleasant emotional response to perceived isolation. 

It is described as social pain – a psychological mechanism which motivates individuals to seek social connections. It is often associated with a perceived lack of connection and intimacy. 

As a subjective emotion, loneliness can be felt even when a person is surrounded by other people. Hence, there is a distinction between being alone and feeling lonely.

Loneliness can be short term or long term. In either case, it can be intense and painful.

Now, let’s explore the health effects of loneliness. Loneliness isn’t just an emotional state; it profoundly impacts our well-being. Here are 10 alarming chronic health risks associated with the loneliness epidemic in America:  

1. Heart Disease: Loneliness is linked to an increased risk of heart disease. The feeling of isolation can strain the cardiovascular system.
2. Mental Health Issues: Loneliness is associated with depression and anxiety. Feeling disconnected from others can take a toll on our emotional well-being.
3. Premature Death: Chronic loneliness has been linked to earlier mortality. It’s essential to recognize and address feelings of isolation to promote longevity.
4. Cognitive Decline: Research suggests that loneliness may contribute to poorer cognitive function and a higher risk of dementia.
5. Increased Stress Levels: Loneliness can lead to chronic stress, affecting your overall health and well-being.
6. Altered Brain Function: Isolation impacts brain health, potentially affecting memory and learning.
7. Antisocial Behavior: Loneliness may lead to withdrawal and reduced social engagement.
8. Alcohol and Drug Misuse: Some individuals turn to substances as a coping mechanism for loneliness.
9. Increased Risk of Stroke: Loneliness has been associated with a higher risk of stroke.
10. Obesity: Isolation can contribute to unhealthy eating habits and inactive lifestyles, increasing the risk of obesity.

ALSO READ: Global obesity epidemic! More than half of the world’s population will be overweight or obese by 2030

WAYS TO COPE WITH THE FEELING OF LONELINESS

Coping with loneliness can be challenging, but there are strategies that can help. Here are some suggestions to combat loneliness and improve your well-being:

1. Self-Reflection and Acceptance: ACKNOWLEDGE your feelings of loneliness without judgment. UNDERSTAND that loneliness is a common human experience. ACCEPT that it’s okay to feel lonely sometimes.
2. Connect with Others: Reach out: Initiate conversations with friends, family, or acquaintances. Join social groups: Attend clubs, classes, or events related to your interests. Volunteer: Helping others can provide a sense of purpose and connection.
3. Online Communities and Social Media: Participate: in online forums, groups, or platforms related to your hobbies or passions. Be cautious: Balance online interactions with real-world connections.
4. Practice Self-Care: Prioritize your well-being: Get enough rest, eat healthily, and exercise. Engage in activities you enjoy: Read, paint, cook, or listen to music.
5. Mindfulness and Meditation: Practice mindfulness: Be present in the moment and observe your thoughts without judgment. Meditate: It can reduce stress and enhance emotional well-being.
6. Seek Professional Help: Therapy or counseling: A mental health professional can guide you through loneliness. Consider support groups: Connecting with others who share similar experiences can be comforting.
7. Challenge Negative Thoughts: Avoid self-criticism: Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations. Challenge irrational beliefs: Loneliness doesn’t define your worth.
8. Engage in Activities Outside Your Comfort Zone: Attend social events: Even if it feels uncomfortable initially. Learn new skills: Join classes or workshops.
9. Adopt a Pet: Pets provide companionship: Consider adopting a dog, cat, or other animals.
10. Practice Gratitude: Focus on what you have: Appreciate small moments and connections. Write a gratitude journal: Reflect on positive aspects of your life.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW: Remember that you’re not alone in feeling lonely, and seeking help and connection is a sign of strength. Reach out to someone you trust or a professional if you need support. 

Bottom Line

Loneliness affects millions of people worldwide. We were created to socialize with each other — to “connect” and exchange thoughts, stories, and ideas with one another. However, with the lives of modern human beings constantly changing, people are still more lonely today than they’ve ever been.

Further, there are many things you can do when trying to overcome it. The key to combating loneliness is realizing how you feel and finding the best strategy for you.