WHO: Loneliness Is A Global Pressing Health Threat That Can Affect Anyone

When was the last time you felt loneliness?

The answer may differ according to the person as we all live different lifestyles but loneliness is surely an emotion that we have felt in our lifetime.

The World Health Organisation, WHO, has announced that loneliness is a global pressing health threat.

“Social isolation – having an insufficient number of social connections, and loneliness – and the social pain of not feeling connected, are widespread.”

“They impact the health and well-being of all age groups across the world. One in four older people experience social isolation and the rates are broadly similar in all regions.”

WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus adds: “High rates of social isolation and loneliness around the world have serious consequences for health and well-being. People without enough strong social connections are at higher risk of stroke, anxiety, dementia, depression, suicide and more.”

It is said that social isolation poses a greater health risk than many other known risk factors such as smoking, excessive drinking, physical inactivity, obesity, and air pollution.

“Social isolation also has a serious impact on physical and mental health; studies show that it has been linked to anxiety and depression and can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease by 30%.”

In order to combat this issue, the WHO will be establishing social connection as a global health priority and share the most promising interventions.

Remember, if you’re feeling lonely, it’s okay to reach out to the people who are close to you for help. You are not alone.

Also read: Hope Through Action: How M’sians Can Overcome the Stigma For Suicide Prevention Month in 2023