Why Loneliness Is A Problem
Social connection is a fundamental human need, as essential to our survival as food, water and shelter. Our relationships with our family, friends, co-workers and neighbors create social connection. Sadly, in the last 20 years, Americans have increasingly been spending more time alone and the percentage of Americans who feel lonely has increased to over 50%. Young adults in particular are experiencing very high levels of loneliness and isolation. Despite this, less than 20% of people who frequently feel lonely recognize it as a major problem.
Loneliness has such a profound effect on our mental and physical health, it has just been declared a public health crisis by our surgeon general, Dr. Vivek Murthy. Loneliness and isolation are more widespread than major health issues such as smoking, diabetes and obesity, but with similar health risk and premature deaths. Research shows that:
· Loneliness and social disconnection increase premature death by 26% and 29% respectively.
· Social disconnection has the same impact on premature death as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
· Loneliness increases the risk of developing heart disease by 29% and stroke by 32%.
· Loneliness is associated with increased risk for developing mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and dementia.
Given these trends, it’s critical that we find ways to reduce isolation and create connections with others.
How We Can Build and Cultivate Social Connections
1. Reconnect with other people - Take 15 minutes out of each day to reach out to a friend or family member. Even short interactions change our brain chemistry in positive ways.
2. Minimize distractions – Put your phone down when you have dinner with your family.Focus on conversation with others. Instead of watching TV together, play boardgames or go play miniature golf. Do activities that increase engagement.
3. Answer the phone – We often don't answer the phone when friends and family call because we are too busy to talk or we don't feel like talking. Even if you pick up to say, “It’s so good to hear your voice. I’m a little busy. Is it okay if I call you later?” you will feel better about making the connection.
4. Volunteer– Studies show that volunteering makes people feel less lonely and also forge relationships with others. If you are nervous about volunteering, recruit a friend or co-worker to go with you. If you don’t know where to start, visit Volunteer Match to find a cause that speaks to you.
5. Ask for Help – If you feel persistently sad and isolated, you may want to seek professional help. The MG Wellness website provides a list of free or low cost counseling options as well as mental health resources for our insured employees.
6. Join a Group or Team – People who join groups or teams feel more socially connected and happier than many people who don’t. Ask your co-workers what groups or clubs they belong to, join one of the gyms that offers an MG employee discount, join an MG Wellness Challenge, or visit Meetup for potential groups to join.
7. Practice Self-Care – Engaging in healthy behaviors improves our health and our mood and often leads to engagement with others. Regular exercise increases endorphins, the “happy hormone” and makes us want to engage more with others. A healthy diet filled with fresh fruit and vegetables lessens anxiety and depression that might be contributing to social isolation. Host a potluck or BBQ where you can combine good food with good friends.
For more tips on combating loneliness, check out this WebMD article, 12 Ways to Beat Loneliness.
