The Rising Increase in Loneliness
Loneliness levels have unfortunately reached an all-time high in the US, according to a national survey conducted by Cigna. This could be due to a lot of different factors, including the COVID-19 quarantine, job and economic stressors, and an increase in social media use. No matter what the cause is, loneliness can be potentially problematic, as it can lead to mental health problems including thoughts of hopelessness, periods of depression, and a decrease in social interactions. While it is typical to have feelings of loneliness come and go throughout your life, it is important to know the risk factors that come along with these feelings. As Julianne Holt-Lunstad, a professor of psychology and neuroscience at Brigham Young University intelligently states, “Being connected to others socially is widely considered a fundamental human need—crucial to both well-being and survival."
When someone feels lonely, often this comes with a feeling of disconnection from their community and sense of self. This can lead people to self isolate and feel like their mind and body are disconnected, a “fight or flight” tactic that naturally happens when a threat is perceived by us. When feelings of loneliness arise, people can get stuck in this “fight or flight” mode, which can lead to symptoms associated with anxiety and depression. This stress response can lead to more serious physical and mental problems, such as chronic illnesses.
Anyone, if persistent and untreated, can get caught up in feelings of loneliness, but for some groups of people, they are even more at risk. These groups include low-income adults, young adults, older adults, adults living alone, immigrants, and people who identify as LGBTQ+. There are also certain factors that increase chances of feeling lonely, such as loss of mobility, vision or hearing problems, psychological or cognitive challenges, feeling a lack of purpose, lack of transportation, inability to leave home without help, a major life change (such as the death of a family member or retirement, separation from family or friends, lack of social support, caring for a loved one who is unwell, living in a rural, unsafe, or hard-to-reach neighborhood, experiencing discrimination based on age, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation, or gender identity, and language barriers.
If you are feeling an abnormal amount of loneliness, it may be time to talk to a mental health professional. The best thing you can do for yourself if you are feeling this way is to find ways to stay connected - to your true self and to your community. Here are some strategies to combat loneliness and improve your mental health:
Find an activity that you enjoy, restart an old hobby, or take a class to learn something new. You might have fun and meet people with similar interests.
Schedule time each day to stay in touch with family, friends, and neighbors in person, by email, social media, voice call, or text. Talk with people you trust and share your feelings.
Use communication technologies such as video chat or smart speakers to help keep you engaged and connected.
Consider volunteering at an animal shelter. Animals can be a source of comfort and may also lower stress and blood pressure.
Stay physically active. Find ways to exercise with others, such as joining a walking club or working out with a friend. Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes (2 1/2 hours) of moderate-intensity activity each week.
Check out resources and programs at your local social service agencies, community and senior centers, and public libraries.
Join a cause and get involved in your community.
As we navigate the complexities of modern life, it’s important to acknowledge the toll loneliness can take on our mental and physical well-being. Remember, while feelings of disconnection may seem overwhelming, they are not insurmountable. By taking proactive steps to reconnect with ourselves and others—through hobbies, community engagement, or seeking professional help when needed—we can foster meaningful connections that support our overall health. Let’s strive to create a world where no one feels isolated, and together, we can prioritize compassion, inclusivity, and a sense of belonging for all.
Additional Resources
For those in need of immediate support and guidance, NAMI HelpLines offer free, nationwide peer-support services. Whether it's information, resource referrals, or simply a listening ear, these helplines are available to individuals living with mental health conditions, their families, caregivers, and even mental health providers.
You can reach the NAMI HelpLine at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264), text "HelpLine" to 62640, or chat with them at nami.org/help, Monday through Friday, from 10 A.M. to 10 P.M., ET. For teenagers and young adults seeking support, the NAMI Teen & Young Adult HelpLine is available at the same number and text options.