Living alone increases the risk of mortality by 32 percent. The ability to cope with loneliness is one of the key skills in a postcovid world, where social isolation and loneliness are becoming more common. Loneliness can be defined as the subjective feeling of lacking desirable forms of social contact. It is a condition that can have both short-term and long-term effects on an individual's mental and physical health. The causes of loneliness are varied and can include factors such as social isolation, lack of close relationships, the death of a loved one, moving to a new place, or difficulty establishing and maintaining relationships. - The effects of loneliness can lead to depression, anxiety, lowered self-esteem and even health problems such as heart disease. - Dr. Matthew Grajek, psychologist, assistant professor in the Department of Public Health at SUM.
An epidemic of loneliness?
Published Feb. 19, 2024 09:17
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The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes loneliness and social isolation as serious threats to public health. Studies have shown that these conditions can affect health and life expectancy, comparable to other well-recognized risk factors such as smoking, obesity and physical inactivity.
The WHO recognizes that loneliness and social isolation are widespread worldwide, affecting about 1 in 4 elderly people and between 5 and 15 percent of adolescents. The problem occurs to a similar extent in both low- and middle-income countries and highly developed countries.
The WHO has initiated a commission to identify and provide resources for improving social relationships as a global public health priority, Dr. Grajek continues.
Contemporary research on loneliness and social isolation reveals that these are complex and pervasive 21st century problems with serious consequences for health and well-being. A study by Holt-Lunstad et al. involving more than 3.4 million participants found that loneliness was associated with a 26% increase in the risk of premature death, and social isolation with a 29% increase in that risk. Living alone increases mortality risk by an impressive 32%.In addition, lack of social support has a significant impact on the economy, including through increased health care expenditures and reduced labor productivity. - explains Dr. Grajek
Loneliness and social isolation affect people all over the world, but they are particularly significant problems in developed countries. For example, studies in the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia have shown that interventions that promote small acts of kindness can significantly reduce levels of loneliness. According to a literature review conducted by BMC Geriatrics, research on loneliness among the elderly has focused on various socio-ecological aspects, including the impact of the housing environment, the availability of public spaces and community interventions. These have included both observational and intervention studies, with a variety of approaches to addressing loneliness and social isolation. With the COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbating the problems of loneliness and social isolation around the world, research and interventions in this area have become even more important.
- Preventing loneliness and promoting social support are key steps toward improving overall public health, Dr. Grajek adds.
Source: SUM
