loneliness;causes and health consequences

What Defines Being Lonely?

Loneliness is a subjective feeling of social isolation or a lack of companionship, which can occur even when one is surrounded by other people. It is a complex and multifaceted emotion that can be experienced by anyone, regardless of their social status or the number of relationships they have. Loneliness can manifest as a deep sense of emptiness, sadness, or disconnection from others, and can be described as an intense longing for human companionship.

It’s not only a state of mind, either; it can have a severe emotional and physiological impact on the sufferer over time. Loneliness can age the human body prematurely, even causing as much damage to the cardiovascular system as habitually smoking cigarettes. Loneliness affects all major systems in the body negatively, including our circulatory system, our nervous system, and our lymphatic system.

However, being alone does not necessarily equate to loneliness, as some individuals may find contentment and fulfillment in solitude. Conversely, one can feel lonely even in the presence of others if there is a lack of meaningful connection or understanding.

Addressing loneliness often involves cultivating meaningful relationships, engaging in social activities, and seeking support from friends, family, or mental health professionals. It’s essential to recognize and acknowledge loneliness as a valid emotional experience and take steps to address it for the sake of one’s well-beingWhile common definitions of loneliness describe it as a state of solitude or being alone, loneliness is actually a state of mind. Loneliness causes people to feel empty, alone, and unwanted. People who are lonely often crave human contact, but their state of mind makes it more difficult to form connections with others.

Growing concerns around the dangers of loneliness have prompted a call to action by US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, who recently issued an 82-page advisory on the issue. The advisory cites data from several studies, including research that found that nearly half of adults in the US experience feelinCauses of Loneliness

Some factors that might cause loneliness include:

Social isolation: When individuals lack meaningful social connections or have limited opportunities for social interaction, they may experience loneliness. This can happen due to factors such as living alone, moving to a new place, lack of close relationships, or a decline in social activities.

Moving to a new city, state, or country: While a permanent change of scenery can often boost our mental health if new social connections aren’t formed (which takes approximately 300 hours), an individual might start to slip into feelings of loneliness. The chances of this happening are more likely if they choose to remain stuck in old habits that may not transition smoothly into their new environment.

The loss of a romantic relationship: Romantic relationships can be chemically addictive, according to science. This means that when they end, the steady supply of oxytocin, dopamine, and more — which was fueled by consistent physical touch and other forms of affirmation—is cut off. Those who experience a breakup are likely to spend a period mourning, possibly even passing through the 5 stages of grief. Loneliness is common when one’s romantic partner is suddenly and permanently out of the picture.

The loss of a friendship: Good friends are hard to come by—and maybe even harder to let go of, it seems. Friendships may not create the chemical dependency we feel in romantic relationships, but social connections with friends are essential to holistic health. Losing a friend may happen for a variety of reasons, but our self-esteem can take a hit if someone lets go of us, or if their toxic behavior forces us to step away. Removing friends from one’s daily life can easily lead to loneliness; replacing them is not only possible but necessary.

The death of a family member or loved one: The grieving process can trigger a flood of emotions, including feelings of loneliness. Family members often are drawn closer together by death, but there’s still the absence created by the person who’s passed away.

Mental health issues: Certain mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, or social anxiety disorder, can contribute to loneliness. These conditions may affect an individual’s ability to engage in social activities, form relationships, or feel connected to others.

Technology and social media: Paradoxically, while technology has made it easier to connect with others remotely, excessive reliance on digital communication and social media can lead to feelings of loneliness. Online interactions may not provide the same depth and quality of connection as face-to-face interactions, and excessive screen time can lead to social isolation.

Lack of social skills or shyness: Some individuals may struggle with social skills or experience shyness, making it challenging for them to initiate or sustain relationships. This difficulty in connecting with others can contribute to feelings of isolation and loneliness.

World events: The transitions and adjustments caused by world events can upend lives, causing immense amounts of stress, change, and isolation. One of the most recent examples of this is the COVID-19 pandemic. Though we are no longer in a state of emergency, the isolation and loneliness that many felt likely still linger as we struggle to get back to life as we knew it before. Many of us still experience grief, frustration, and aimlessness due to the pandemic—feelings that are hard to shake, and can make us feel lost and lonely.