Surgeon Generals Advisory On The Healing Effects Of Social Connection And Community

Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation

Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community

Internet Review

A new report from the U.S. Surgeon General highlights the serious health risks associated with loneliness and social isolation. The report, titled “The Health Effects of Loneliness and Social Isolation,” synthesizes data from over 16 independent longitudinal studies. The findings show that poor social relationships, social isolation, poor social support, and loneliness are associated with a higher risk of premature mortality, cardiovascular disease, stroke, depression, anxiety, cognitive decline, and functional impairment.^[1]

The report also notes that loneliness is a growing problem in the United States. A recent survey found that nearly half of Americans report feeling lonely.^[2] This number has increased significantly in recent years, especially among young adults.^[3]

The Surgeon General’s report calls attention to the urgent need to address the public health crisis of loneliness. The report recommends a number of strategies to promote social connection and reduce loneliness, including:

• Increasing opportunities for social interaction
• Promoting social support programs
• Reducing social isolation
• Educating the public about the health risks of loneliness

The report also suggests ways to use technology to connect people and reduce loneliness. For example, the report recommends developing online social networks, providing access to broadband internet in underserved communities, and using technology to support social support programs.^[4]

The Surgeon General’s report is a wake-up call for the nation. Loneliness is a serious public health problem that is harming our health and our society. We need to take action to address this issue and promote social connection.

References

1. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Surgeon General. (2022, December 20). The Health Effects of Loneliness and Social Isolation. https://www.surgeongeneral.gov/topics/loneliness-social-isolation

1. Cigna. (2022, May 12). Cigna U.S. Loneliness Index 2022. https://www.cigna.com/about/news-stories/cigna-2022-loneliness-index

1. Twenge, J. M., & Campbell, W. K. (2019). Age, period, and cohort effects on trends in loneliness in adolescence and early adulthood. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 117(3), 533-549. https://psycnet.apa.org/doi/10.1037/pspp0000139

1. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Surgeon General. (2022, December 20). The Health Effects of Loneliness and Social Isolation. https://www.surgeongeneral.gov/topics/loneliness-social-isolation