Loneliness a global health threat, says WHO

Team Blitz India

NEW DELHI: Loneliness is a serious problem, with far-reaching consequences for both mental and physical well-being. It is associated with an increased risk of a range of health problems, including mental health problems like depression, anxiety, and suicide.

Now, the World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized loneliness as a serious global health threat, and it has launched a number of initiatives to address the problem. The WHO is also working with countries to develop and implement national strategies to address loneliness.

The WHO has published a report titled Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolationin which it states that loneliness is far more than just a bad feeling-it harms both individual and societal health. It is associated with a greater risk of cardiovascular disease, dementia, stroke, depression, anxiety, and premature death.”

“The mortality impact of being socially disconnected is similar to that caused by smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day and even greater than that associated with obesity and physical inactivity. And the harmful consequences of a society that lacks social connection can be felt in our schools, workplaces, and civic organizations, where performance, productivity, and engagement are diminished.”