In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, social connections are often overlooked. Yet research shows that our relationships profoundly impact our health and well-being. A recent article from Our World in Data delves into the crucial link between social ties and health, shedding light on why fostering these connections is more important than ever.
What is loneliness? Loneliness is the emotional experience of feeling disconnected or isolated from others, even when in the presence of people.
Statistics: A 2021 report by the American Psychological Association found that nearly 3 in 5 Americans reported feeling lonely. Younger adults (ages 18-25), those with low incomes, and people in poor health are particularly affected. Leaving alone has reached 30% of households in the USA.
Data on health Risks:
Loneliness causes physical problems, and physical disability causes loneliness.
- A study conducted in 1979 found that people who lacked social connection were more than twice as likely than those with greater social connection to die within the follow-up period.
- More recent estimates, based on synthesizing data across 148 studies, with an average of 7.5 years of follow-up, suggest that social connection increases the odds of survival by 50%.
- There is a 29% increase in the risk of heart disease and a 32% increase in the risk of stroke. They also have a higher risk of hospitalization.
- Smaller social network size has been associated with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes and complications from diabetes.1
- Increased susceptibility and weaker immune responses when they are exposed to infectious diseases.
Mental health: Researchers have found that loneliness correlates with subsequent increases in symptoms related to dementia, depression, and many other issues related to mental health. In one study of over 500,000 middle-aged adults, the probability of dying by suicide more than doubled among men who lived alone.
Role of Society: No wonder the Surgeon General has considered loneliness an epidemic and outlined solutions in this PDF file.
What can you do? Build Meaningful Connections
- Engage in Community Activities: Joining clubs, attending local events, or participating in volunteer work can help foster new connections and reinforce existing ones.
- Nurture Existing Relationships: Invest time in maintaining relationships with family and friends. Regular check-ins and shared activities can strengthen these bonds. You may have some friction with your close ones, but let your ego out the door and maintain healthy relationships.
- Practice Active Listening: Show genuine interest in others’ lives. This helps you connect better and makes people feel valued and understood.
- Be Open to New Connections. Meeting new people through hobbies, classes, or social media can expand your social circle. After all, some of your friends will move away or die as you age.
Let’s embrace the power of connection—after all, it’s not just about having people around us; it’s about forming deep, supportive relationships that enrich our lives. Doing so can create a healthier, more connected world for ourselves and future generations. Do remember that, at times, loneliness comes from within, and that could be a sign of depression or avoidance.
Tarak Vasavada, MD
Medical director,
Live Well Foundation of Madison County Medical Society