Some days we all feel incredibly lonely and isolated, don't we? Even though we are surrounded by friends, relatives, and family, sometimes we feel like we are completely alone in this world. While you may think this is just a sad feeling or a little disappointment, did you know that this can actually be a much deeper, more serious health problem? Today we are talking about this loneliness and isolation that silently affects our lives.
The 'pandemic of loneliness' that even America is talking about
Recently, the Surgeon General of the United States issued a statement saying that loneliness and lack of social connections are a serious public health crisis in the country. According to him, it has been reported that one in two adults suffers from loneliness. This situation has become even worse since the Covid pandemic, when we were all confined to our homes.
Think about how relevant this is to our country. No matter how technologically advanced we are and how many friends we have on social media, how many people suffer in real life without someone to share their feelings with or to share a bond with?
The important thing is that loneliness doesn't mean you live alone. Loneliness is the painful feeling you get when you don't have the social connections you need and want.
Why is it said to be as dangerous as smoking 15 cigarettes a day?
You may be surprised to hear this, but this is what medical research has found: A person who does not have strong enough social connections has a 60% increased risk of premature death.
Simply put, this is the same health risk as someone who smokes about 15 cigarettes a day. We all know how harmful smoking is. But we need to understand that loneliness, which we don't even think about, is an equally dangerous health enemy.
The effect of loneliness on our body and mind
Loneliness is not limited to the mind. It directly affects many of our body's organ systems. Check out the table below to see what those risks are.
| Affected sector | Risk and description |
|---|---|
| Heart and blood vessels | The risk of heart disease and stroke increases significantly. |
| Brain health | It increases the risk of diseases such as memory loss and dementia. |
| Mental health | It can be a major cause of mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression. |
| Life risk | Research shows that loneliness increases the risk of premature death by 26%, and social isolation by 29%. It can also affect thoughts of self-harm. |
What should we do to overcome this loneliness?
Although this is a big problem, there are many things we can do to overcome it. The most important thing is to pay attention to this and take action.
First of all, don't be afraid to talk about this.
Many people have the misconception that sharing their sadness and pain with someone else will be a burden and a nuisance to that person. But in reality, the opposite is true.
Imagine that you are feeling a lot of stress. If you tell your best friend about it, will he/she think you are a burden? No, right? Most of the time, he/she will say, "Hey, I've been through the same thing, don't worry, let's talk." The relief you feel at that moment will only strengthen your friendship, not hurt it. Sharing your feelings will strengthen your relationship.
How do we rebuild our social relationships?
You don't need big things. You can start with small things.
- Call an old friend: Call a friend you haven't spoken to in a while and talk for five to ten minutes.
- Smile with a neighbor: Smile when you see someone from your neighborhood. If possible, have a small chat over a cup of tea .
- Get involved in a community service: Help with a small task at your village temple, church, or temple. Join a Shramadan or charity event.
- Start a hobby: Go to a place where you do something you enjoy. It could be a sport, a book club, or a gym. There you will meet people who have the same ideas as you.
- Spend time with your family: Make it a habit to sit together at dinner and discuss the details of your day.
Whenever you need help...
Sometimes loneliness and the stress it brings can be overwhelming. If you're feeling like you're giving up on life, feeling like you're trying to hurt yourself, or are turning to drugs or alcohol because of it, please don't suffer alone.
In such a situation, along with talking to someone you trust, immediately see your family doctor. He or she can give you the guidance you need. They may also refer you to a mental health specialist (Psychiatrist). This is nothing to be ashamed of, and it is a condition that needs to be treated just like any physical illness.
In addition, there are also organizations like Sri Lanka Friends that protect confidentiality, where you can talk and share your feelings at any time. Remember, asking for help is not a weakness, it is a strength.
Take-Home Message
- Loneliness is not just a feeling, it is a serious health risk, just like diabetes and heart disease.
- A lack of strong social connections can do the same amount of damage to your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
- Talk to someone you trust about your feelings. It will strengthen your relationship and you won't be a burden to anyone.
- Start with small things to build social connections. Talk to an old friend, laugh with a neighbor, get involved in a community project.
- If the loneliness is unbearable or if you are having thoughts of giving up on life, definitely see a doctor and seek medical advice.
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