The Growing Epidemic of Social Isolation and Loneliness
February 10, 2025 | Tags:
Please note: This article discusses topics related to mental health, self-harm and suicide, which may be distressing for some readers.
Think back to your last routine health exam. Your primary care provider (PCP) probably asked about your blood pressure, heart health and lifestyle. But experts say doctors should focus on another concern during your checkup: social isolation and loneliness (SIL).
In 2023, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy declared SIL to be an epidemic with health impacts comparable to smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day. Learn why SIL is recognized as an urgent health issue and what resources are available to effectively address it.
What are Social Isolation and Loneliness?
Reports of both social isolation and loneliness have been on the rise, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. An estimated one in four adults' experiences social isolation and between five and 15 percent of adolescents experience loneliness, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
So how are these terms defined?
Social isolation refers to lacking social contact through relationships or having little to no social support. For example, an elderly person living alone with no family visits or community interactions might experience social isolation.
Loneliness relates to feeling alone or disconnected from others, leading to a lack of meaningful relationships or a sense of belonging. This can even occur in social settings. For example, a student studying abroad who is disconnected from family back home might struggle to make new friends.
An increase in time spent alone or decrease in social participation and companionship can contribute to SIL. Various factors, including one’s environment, can also shape SIL. This can include where people:
- Are born
- Live
- Learn
- Play
- Worship
Feelings of SIL can also depend on the availability of community resources. Access to parks and libraries, public transportation and social programs can make it easier for people to connect and engage with others.
How Social Isolation and Loneliness Can Affect Your Mental and Physical Health
SIL can negatively impact your physical and mental health by influencing factors like stress, behaviors and a sense of meaning and purpose.
Data from the Annals of Family Medicine, a peer-reviewed research journal, shows SIL increases the risk of chronic health conditions, such as:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Hypertension
- Obesity
- Stroke
And it’s not just your physical health that’s at risk. According to the CDC, SIL can also increase your risk for mental health conditions, like:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Suicidality and self-harm
Untreated SIL can even lead to early death. Fortunately, there are treatments and resources to help support your social well-being.
Get Help for Social Isolation and Loneliness
Social isolation and loneliness can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation or background. If you or someone you know is struggling with social isolation and loneliness, encourage them to seek care for mental health.
Dr. O encourages you to make an appointment with your PCP or another in-network mental health specialist. Medical Mutual members have access to a variety of programs and mental health resources through the My Health Plan portal.
Members can also call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) treatment referral hotline at 1-877-726-4727 (TTY 1-800-487-4889 for hearing impaired) to locate treatment services and resources.
If You or Someone You Know is Having Thoughts of Suicide
Seek immediate help if you or someone you know is in danger of harming themselves. Call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. The Lifeline online chat platform is also available at 988lifeline.org.
If you believe a loved one is in immediate danger of attempting suicide, call 911 or take them to the nearest emergency room.
Mental health organizations like NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) can offer advocacy, support, education and public awareness to those affected by mental illness.
Call the NAMI Helpline at 1-800-950-6264, text "helpline" to 62640 or chat online at NAMI.org Monday through Friday 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. EST. Teens and young adults can also text “Friend” to 62640 to connect with NAMI team members.