Loneliness

By Dr. Ann Lima

There is widespread and increasing prevalence of loneliness, which is the feeling of being socially disconnected or isolated. It is associated with adverse health outcomes, including increased risks of depression, anxiety, chronic illnesses like heart disease and dementia, and even death.
Modern society, while more connected than ever through technology, has ironically led to greater isolation for many individuals. Social media platforms, while designed to bring people together, often contribute to feelings of inadequacy and disconnection, as users compare their lives to the curated, idealized versions shared online.
The rise of loneliness is closely linked to societal changes such as family fragmentation, and the decline of close-knit communities. Many individuals, especially older adults, find themselves isolated due to geographical displacement or the loss of loved ones. Younger generations, despite being constantly connected digitally, are also struggling with the pressures of social comparison and the fear of missing out (FOMO), which can exacerbate feelings of loneliness.
The loneliness epidemic was already a significant issue before the COVID-19 pandemic, with 1 in 5 American adults reporting feelings of loneliness and affecting an estimated 28.5% of adults 60 and older (Chawla et al, 2021). Adolescents worldwide have reported increased levels of loneliness, particularly since 2012, which corresponds to the rise of smartphone access, internet and social media use (Twenge et al, 2021). During the pandemic it increased further and affected people of all ages, backgrounds and cultures, leading to heightened mental health concerns.
Some things we can do to combat loneliness include strengthening our social circles, providing service to others and building community structures. Spend time deepening already existing relationships, reach out to friends and neighbors, use the holidays as an excuse to reconnect with family and old friends. There are so many opportunities to volunteer and help in our communities, this keeps us engaged and fosters a sense of purpose and belonging. Take a break from social media and get engaged in human connection. Find shared interests with those you may disagree with; you will find that you have more in common than you think. In an increasingly digital world, it is crucial to remember the importance of human connection for our mental and physical health.