The public health crisis of loneliness

Social isolation and loneliness are growing concerns in today’s society and affect people of all ages and backgrounds, including veterans. These feelings can arise from living alone, significant life changes or a lack of social connections.

Loneliness is often cited as a factor in suicide attempts. The American Legion has prioritized its Be the One mission to reduce the number of veterans lost to suicide by destigmatizing mental health treatment and conducting suicide prevention training. While September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, attention to these issues is critical every day of the year.

Isolation and loneliness often extend beyond emotional distress, affecting physical health, mental well-being and overall quality of life. Here’s a look at how far-ranging their effects can be:

Physical health. Studies show that chronic loneliness can be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. It is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, hypertension and weakened immune systems. Prolonged isolation can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, poor nutrition and neglect of personal health care, further exacerbating health problems.

Mental health. Feelings of isolation are strongly linked to mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety. Further, isolation often results in decreased cognitive function, and an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia in older adults. A constant state of loneliness can trigger stress responses in the body, leading to chronic stress.

Social and emotional. Humans are inherently social beings, and connections are crucial for emotional health. Loneliness can lead to a sense of disconnection, making it difficult to form and maintain meaningful relationships. It can also result in social withdrawal, with individuals avoiding interactions and deepening their isolation. This can lead to a negative self-perception and low self-esteem.

Financial. Socially isolated individuals are more likely to experience unemployment or underemployment, leading to financial instability. The increased health-care costs associated with treating the physical and mental health consequences of loneliness place a burden on health systems.

What can be done?

Addressing loneliness and isolation requires a multifaceted approach involving individuals, communities and policymakers. Strategies include:

Promoting social connections. Encouraging community engagement and participation in social activities can help individuals build and maintain connections. Community centers, clubs and organizations provide platforms for interaction and support.

Leveraging technology. Technology can bridge the gap for those who are physically isolated by enabling virtual communication. Video calls, social media and online communities can help maintain connections with loved ones and provide opportunities to meet new people.

Supporting mental health. Access to mental health services is crucial. Counseling, therapy and support groups can offer emotional support.

Encouraging fitness. Physical activity can also improve mental health. Group exercise classes, walking clubs and recreational sports have the additional benefit of social interaction.

Eating together. Researchers have identified five places in the world, called “Blue Zones,” where people frequently live to 100 or beyond. A common lifestyle trait they share is eating one meal daily with family and/or friends.

Army veteran Jennifer Campbell is a certified personal trainer with a master’s degree in nutrition education. She is past commander of the California Legion’s 24th DiStrict and Hollywood Post 43.