In 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General declared loneliness an epidemic, stating that its consequences extend far beyond “just a bad feeling”. While loneliness is typically recognized as an unpleasant emotional response to perceived isolation, it can also have impacts on cognitive, physical, and mental health.
The terms “loneliness” and “social isolation” are often used interchangeably, but they differ in some fundamental ways. Loneliness refers to the subjective feeling of being alone or lacking meaningful social connections. Social isolation, however, describes the objective lack of social contact.
Loneliness is also not the same as solitude. Some people may enjoy time alone, whether it’s for brief or extended periods of time, and therefore don’t suffer the same negative health outcomes as those who feel lonely. Perceived loneliness—the degree to which someone feels that their social needs are not being met—is influenced by various social determinants of health, including socioeconomic status, access to healthcare, and environmental factors.
The U.S. and Canada have experienced a substantial rise in loneliness in recent years. In the U.S., rates of loneliness are notably high among young adults, people with lower incomes, and racial and ethnic minorities. These findings are consistent in Canada, with approximately two-thirds of 18 to 54-year-olds reporting that they feel a lack of belonging and 76% of unemployed people feeling cut off from their communities.
The effects of social isolation can be significant. Research links chronic loneliness to an increased risk of depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline, including dementia. Loneliness can also trigger inflammatory responses in the body, impacting brain function and potentially accelerating age-related cognitive decline.
Healthcare providers play a vital role in addressing this public health crisis. By acknowledging the profound impact of social isolation—and conversely, social connection—on patient outcomes, they can advocate for lifestyle changes that promote social connectedness and reduce feelings of loneliness.
(Adapted from https://creyos.com/)