WHO: Loneliness and Social Isolation Cause 871,000 Deaths Annually

This is the time when people are more digitally connected than ever. However, they also feel alone more than ever. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has revealed that loneliness and social isolation are responsible for 871,000 deaths every year. It means nearly 100 people are dying every hour because of loneliness. It is not a virus but a sense of isolation and disengagement that kills hundreds of thousands of people each year. 

If you are feeling lonely, you are not alone- literally. According to a three-year study by the WHO, 1 in 6 people worldwide experience loneliness or social isolation. It is not just an emotional struggle, as most people perceive but it is also linked to serious health problems, both mental and physical.

Findings from the WHO reveal that loneliness can lead to heart disease, stroke, dementia, depression, anxiety and even early death. This problem even raises the risk of stroke by 32%, heart disease by 29% and dementia by 50%. Dr. Vivek Murthy, US Surgeon, compared loneliness to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

Normally, this problem is associated with older people. However, the data revealed that young people aged 13 to 17 experienced it most. 21% people of in this same age group report these feelings. Furthermore, loneliness is more prevalent in low-income countries such as Africa, where loneliness affects 24% of the population.

Though we are more connected than ever through smartphones and social media but many young people report loneliness and feel deeply alone. According to WHO, excessive screen time or scrolling can aggravate the issue and lead to more loneliness, anxiety and even depression.

The World Health Organisation has declared social connection as a public health priority. Countries like Sweden, Japan, the UK and the US have introduced national programs to fight loneliness. The WHO also wants governments to include social connection in their health plans, start campaigns to raise public awareness and extend support to more vulnerable communities.

Way Out!

In order to prevent loneliness, we need to establish real-life connections through friendships, family time and community activities. Inclusive programs should be developed to support vulnerable communities and individuals who feel left out. Healthy digital habits should be taught to kids and teens and also we should raise awareness and break social stigma around loneliness. This issue can be countered by developing meaningful connections.