Loneliness

Loneliness is now regarded as an epidemic. The U.S. Surgeon General has recently released updated guidelines on loneliness to raise awareness on its detrimental effects ranging from mental health disorders to increased mortality rates. Social connection is an important protective factor against loneliness, and these released guidelines offer evidence-based recommendations to foster a sense of belonging in society.

 

Specifically, the guidelines outline a comprehensive approach to addressing loneliness with 6 notable pillars: 1) Strengthening social infrastructure in local communities, 2) Enacting pro-connection public policies, 3) Mobilizing the health sector, 4) Reforming digital environments, 5) Deepening our knowledge, and 6) Creating a culture of connection. These valuable strategies offer a relevant call to action for families, healthcare providers, and policymakers to implement in combating loneliness. For more see this link:

https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-social-connection-advisory.pdf