Dealing With the Loneliness Epidemic
Did you know that, even before the COVID-19 pandemic cut lots of us off from friends, family, and other support systems, more than half of US adults reported experiencing loneliness? According to data collected in 2019, 61% of adults experienced loneliness, a seven percentage point increase from 2018. COVID-19 related social distancing measures and lockdowns lead to increased levels of isolation and loneliness, further exacerbating this loneliness epidemic, which persists even now that the public health emergency has officially ended. This is a big deal because, as US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy points out, "Loneliness is far more than just a bad feeling—it harms both individual and societal health. It is associated with a greater risk of cardiovascular disease, dementia, stroke, depression, anxiety, and premature death. The mortality impact of being socially disconnected is similar to that caused by smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day and even greater than that associated with obesity and physical inactivity."
Additionally, loneliness and mental health concerns often go hand-in-hand. Research has linked social isolation to issues such as depression, poor sleep quality, impaired executive function, and accelerated cognitive decline. Fundamentally, we require social connection to survive; it is as essential to survival as food, water, and shelter. In his hierarchy of needs, Psychologist Abraham Maslow identified social connection as "belonging and love" and viewed it as the third level of human needs, after basic physiological and safety needs. Maslow asserted that people need a sense of belonging and acceptance among social groups, irrespective of group size or context; group membership is vital no matter whether those groups are through work, sports, friends, family, religion, etc.
If you are experiencing loneliness, here are some tips for building connection and regaining a sense of belonging:
1. Acknowledge the problem and seek support
Loneliness thrives on silence and isolation, so don't keep it to yourself. Reach out to friends, family, or a mental health professional to talk about how you're feeling. Ask for help. Joining support groups or online communities can also be helpful in connecting with others who are experiencing similar feelings.
2. Volunteer and give back
Volunteering can be a great way to connect with others while giving back to your community. Find a cause that you are passionate about and look for opportunities to get involved. Volunteering can provide a sense of purpose and help you build meaningful relationships with others.
3. Explore new hobbies and interests
Exploring new hobbies and interests can help you meet new people and expand your social circle. Join a sports team, take a class, or attend a club meeting related to a hobby or interest that you enjoy. This can help you connect with others who share your passions and provide an opportunity to form new friendships.
Remember that social connection is as integral to everyone's happiness and health as food and shelter. By taking small steps to strengthen or build community and combat isolation, we can create a healthier, happier world.
