Mental Health Minute

Loneliness is Linked to Poor Health Outcomes

According to the US Surgeon General’s 2023 Advisory on Our Epidemic of Loneliness & Isolation, lack of social connection poses significant risks to health & longevity including: Increased risks of premature death matching that of smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day, 29% increased risk of heart disease; 32% increased risk of stroke; Increased susceptibility to virus & respiratory illness and Increased risk of anxiety, depression & dementia.

Here’s some things to try to overcome & cope with Loneliness:

• Care for your Body:

  You’ll likely this find this on every mental health minute list.  Move your body, feed it well, give it the right amount of sleep.  A healthy body creates a sense of well-being.

• Spend time in Nature:

  Time spent in nature is associated with stress relief & mental health.  Nature often activates a sense of awe which gets our mind off our selves.

• Consider getting a Pet:

  The companionship of pets has been found to reduce loneliness, blood pressure & negative emotions. And can boost our levels of Serotonin, Dopamine & Oxytocin.

• Reach out:

  Share simple joys you experience throughout the day with a text.  Call old friends or relatives who have grown distant..  Share how you’re feelings with those you trust.

• Connect IRL:

  Meet up with friends in person in real life.  Go where the people are.  Talk to strangers, even chats with the barista or grocery clerk count.

• Make new connections:

  Try apps like Meet-Up or Bumble BFF.  Get involved at church or in the community through volunteering, community education classes. Participate in group exercise.

• Focus on Others:

  Consider how you can meet a physical or emotional need for someone else.

• Do it Solo:

  Engage in activities you love alone.

If you feel suicidal call 988, text 41741

Or go to your nearest ER