The Health Risks of Social Isolation & Loneliness
Loneliness and social isolation – which have been on the rise the past few years – pose a great risk to our health. It’s difficult to gauge the true impact of social isolation, but there have been several studies in the past few years that indicate its importance.
Loneliness is the feeling of being alone, whereas social isolation is the lack of social connection. One can feel lonely with or without social isolation, but typically it involves some lack of quality relationships or connection. Whether someone has social connections and they aren’t easily accessible, or if they lack connection altogether, isolation significantly increases a person’s risk of premature death from all causes.
Most of us have likely experienced loneliness, and the events of the past few years made social isolation necessary at times. According to the CDC, this lack of connection to our community, to our neighbors, and to our friends rivals the health risks of smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity. Poor social relationships (or complete lack thereof) is associated with higher rates of depression, anxiety, suicide, risk of heart disease and stroke, and dementia.
Although the findings are preliminary, the indications are clear. If we are experiencing loneliness or social isolation, our health is at risk, even if we are doing “all the right things.” Harvard reported in 2021 that among American adults, 36% of respondents reported serious loneliness—feeling lonely “frequently” or “almost all the time or all the time” in the four weeks prior to the survey. That study places over a third of American adults at a greater health risk. This data can feel disheartening, because there is no quick fix to make sure everyone has a community to connect with.
As a physician, I see patients who are going through their own health journey and feel completely alone. When you have to alter your lifestyle, your diet, or behavior with the hopes of improving symptoms, not everyone will understand. The process of change can feel isolating, overwhelming, and at times, impossible without the support of others.
It has always been my goal to reduce suffering, and it seems that social connectedness is a bigger piece of the puzzle now than ever before. My practice serves as a support system for many people who are seeking change and better health. We offer an opportunity twice per month for our members to meet each other on zoom and ask questions, share tips and advice, and just not feel so alone. If you’d like to become a member of our community, and receive support while navigating your health journey, become a member today.
Sources: https://www.cdc.gov/aging/publications/features/lonely-older-adults.html