Loneliness and social isolation: What to know and how to help promote social connection

Social isolation and loneliness are widespread problems in the United States and pose serious threats to our mental and physical health. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Last year, US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy declared that loneliness and isolation are an epidemic, with health impacts comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

according to CDC dataIn the United States, about one in three adults report feeling lonely, and about one in four adults report lacking social and emotional support.

Research has shown that loneliness and social isolation can lead to a host of health problems, both mental and physical, and doctors say it’s important to discuss the issue during regular checkups and when managing chronic diseases.

reference: Doctors say loneliness and social isolation should be discussed during health checks

Risk of loneliness and social isolation:

• Increased risk of premature death from any cause

• Social isolation increases risk of dementia by about 50%

• Social isolation increases the risk of heart disease by 29% and stroke by 32%.

• Loneliness is associated with higher rates of depression, anxiety and suicide

• Loneliness in heart failure patients was associated with nearly four times the risk of death, a 68% increased risk of hospitalization, and a 57% increased risk of emergency department visits.

Individual risk factors:

• Have a mental or physical problem, such as a chronic illness or condition, mental illness or depression, or a long-term disability

• Being marginalized or discriminated against

• Have limited or no access to resources, such as living in a rural area, limited transportation, or language barriers

• Becoming a victim of violence or abuse

• Facing divorce, unemployment, or the death of a loved one

Group Risk Factors:

Loneliness may affect the following groups more than others:

• People who identify as LGBTQ+

How to foster social connections

There are lots of ways to improve social connections, and according to the CDC, small actions can make a big difference.

Simple things like keeping in touch and checking in with each other can help. Keeping in touch with your friends lets them know you’re thinking of them. There are no official guidelines, but Here is a list of some suggestions.

Promise to connect is an initiative launched by the U.S. Department of Community Living to combat social isolation and loneliness by helping people build the social connections they need to connect, engage, and thrive.

AARP Foundation Connect 2 Affect For everyone who may be affected by social isolation, 3-minute evaluation You’ll get a better understanding of your risk level. At the end of the assessment, you’ll be provided with helpful information and local recommendations based on the results.

Local organizations and nonprofits also work to foster social connections, and nursing homes, assisted living facilities, grocery stores, doctor’s offices, and community organizations can also foster community connections.

If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, substance use or another mental health crisis, please call or text our new three-digit number, 988. Trained crisis counselors are available 24/7 to help, free of charge. You can also visit 988lifeline.org.

ABC News contributed to this report.