Loneliness has emerged as a profound global health concern, with factors like pandemic-induced isolation exacerbating this issue, posing severe threats to both mental and physical well-being. The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially declared loneliness as a critical health concern, aligning with the assessment of the US Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, who equated its impact to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
Loneliness: A Complex Emotional State
Loneliness is a multifaceted emotional state characterized by isolation, disconnection, and a lack of meaningful social connections. It can affect individuals irrespective of their backgrounds, triggered by various reasons such as the loss of a loved one or experiences of social exclusion. The establishment of the Commission on Social Connection by WHO underscores the pressing need to address loneliness due to its alarming impact on health.
Elevating Loneliness as a Global Public Health Priority
Co-chaired by Dr. Vivek Murthy and Chido Mpemba, the Commission on Social Connection aims to elevate loneliness as a global public health priority. This initiative intends to propose a comprehensive global agenda on social connection, emphasizing how personal connections and relationships play a pivotal role in enhancing the well-being of individuals and communities.
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus highlighted the serious consequences, stating, “High rates of social isolation and loneliness around the world have serious consequences for health and well-being. People without enough strong social connections are at higher risk of stroke, anxiety, dementia, depression, suicide, and more.”
The Alarming Impact of Loneliness
In his report titled ‘Our Epidemic Of Loneliness and Isolation,’ Dr. Vivek Murthy emphasized the mortality impact, revealing that being socially disconnected is akin to the impact of smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day. Chido Mpemba, African Union Youth Envoy, echoed the universal nature of loneliness, asserting, “Young people are not immune to loneliness. Social isolation can affect anyone, of any age, anywhere.”
Loneliness is significantly linked to a 50% higher risk of dementia and a 30% higher risk of coronary artery disease or stroke in older adults. Moreover, it affects the lives of young people, with 5% to 15% of adolescents experiencing loneliness. In Africa, 12.7% of adolescents grapple with loneliness, compared to 5.3% in Europe.
Tips to Beat Loneliness
- Accept What You Feel: Acknowledge your feelings, as finding a solution to loneliness becomes challenging without understanding the emotions you’re dealing with.
- Alone Time: Dedicate time to relax and engage in activities you enjoy. Shifting focus from loneliness can significantly improve your mood. Consider trying a new hobby or working towards personal goals.
- Connect With Others: Establishing social connections is crucial in combating loneliness. Meet new people, engage in conversations, and nurture relationships to create a support system.
- Prioritize Yourself: Self-care is paramount. Prioritize a well-balanced diet with complex carbs, fatty acids, and leafy greens to support your mental and physical health. Avoid foods that can trigger depression and anxiety, such as processed sugars and trans fats.
