Loneliness is linked to about 100 deaths every hour – more than 871,000 deaths annually. In contrast, strong social relations are associated with better health and longer life, the UN Health Agency said Monday.
There defines social connection as the ways in which people relate to and interact with each other. Loneliness is the worrying feeling that arises when there is a gap between desired and actual social conditions, while social isolation refers to the objective lack of social ties.
“In this age, where the possibilities of connecting are endless, more and more people find themselves isolated and lonely,” said Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, as Director General.
Disproportionate influence
While loneliness affects people of all ages, young people and people living in low and middle -income countries are especially vulnerable.
“Even in a digitally linked world, many young people feel alone. When technology transforms our lives, we need to ensure that it strengthens-not-weakening connection,” said Chido Mpemba, co-chair of the WHO Commission on Social Connection, which published the report.
The report, From Loneliness to Social Connection: Mapping the Road to Healthier SocietyHighlights concerns about excessive screen time and harmful online interactions, especially among adolescents and their negative effects on mental health.
Several factors contribute to loneliness and social isolation, including poor health, low income and education, live alone, lack of adequate social infrastructure and public policies as well as certain aspects of digital technologies.
Serious health risks
Loneliness and social isolation increase the risk of stroke, heart disease, diabetes, cognitive decline and early death. Lonely people are twice as likely to experience depression and may also have increased anxiety and suicidal thoughts.
Conversely, social connection offers protective benefits throughout life – reducing inflammation, lowering the risk of serious illness, promoting mental health and expanding life.
Toward healthier society
The report establishes a roadmap for global action focusing on five key areas: politics, research, interventions, improved measurement and public engagement. Together, these aim to reshape social norms and build a movement for social connection.
While the cost of social isolation and loneliness is steep, the benefits of social relations are deep. Governments called on governments, societies and individuals to make social connection a public health priority.
