SOCIAL SUPPORT IS MEDICINE! Are you lonely? We as human beings are hard-wired for human interaction. Without it, we suffer emotionally, medically and spiritually. The absence of positive and supportive social connections has been identified as a risk factor for premature morbidity and mortality. This pillar of Lifestyle Medicine has been specifically challenged since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic that has severely restricted social movement and family visitations, particularly amongst elderly Americans, resulting in a negative impact on emotional resilience.
By definition social isolation is an objective state marked by few or infrequent social contacts. Loneliness is a subjective and distressing feeling of social isolation and is often defined as the difference between actual and desired level of social connections (healthaffairs.org). It is possible to be alone and not feel lonely and to feel lonely despite having numerous social contacts.
It is estimated that one out of every five adults is affected by loneliness and it has been recognized as a serious public health concern by the Center for Disease Control(CDC). Loneliness has been shown to increase the risk of dementia by 50% percent, increase risk of heart disease by 25%, increase stroke by 32% and contribute to higher rates of depression, anxiety and suicide. Additionally, for heart failure patients it was associated with a four fold increase in risk of death, 68% increased risk of hospitalizations and the 37% increase in risk of emergency department visits (CDC).
It is important to note that loneliness and social isolation may influence other pillars of Lifestyle Medicine as well, by getting less exercise, consuming excessive amounts of alcohol and tobacco and contributing to poor sleep quality. If you or a loved one or friend are struggling with loneliness here are a few suggestions to help you stay socially connected: find an activity you enjoy or engage in a hobby; stay in touch with family and friends by email, social media, video calls or text; talk with people you trust for sharing your feelings and thoughts; get more involved with coworkers for after- work social functions; consider adopting a pet; join a walking or exercise club; seek out a faith-based organizations that engages in social activity; and lastly for elderly citizens suffering from loneliness there is the Eldercare Locator organization that is part of the United States Administration of Aging that can be reached at 1-800-677-1116.
Loneliness and social isolation can be difficult subjects to talk about so be sure to check with friends and family both young and old about where they are with their social support system.
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