Unveiling the Silent Epidemic
In a startling revelation, the World Health Organization (WHO) has officially recognized loneliness as a significant global health threat. The gravity of this declaration was underscored by the US surgeon general, who likened the mortality impact of loneliness to smoking a staggering 15 cigarettes a day.
Global Commission on Loneliness
To address this burgeoning crisis, the WHO has launched an international commission dedicated to combating loneliness. The commission aims to promote social connections and implement solutions across nations, irrespective of their economic status.
Health Consequences Unveiled
Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of WHO, emphasized the severe repercussions of widespread loneliness on health and well-being. The absence of robust social connections increases the risk of various health issues, including stroke, anxiety, dementia, depression, and suicide. Dr Vivek Murthy, the US surgeon general, issued a stark warning, asserting that the health risks associated with loneliness surpass those linked to obesity and physical inactivity.
Loneliness: A Silent Culprit
Loneliness, according to WHO, correlates with a 50% increased risk of developing dementia and a 30% increased risk of coronary artery disease or stroke in older adults. Even adolescents are not immune, with research suggesting that between 5% and 15% experience loneliness, potentially underestimated figures. Counsellor psychologic shed light on the physical toll of loneliness, including fatigue, disturbed sleep cycles, chronic body aches, and an elevated risk of heart disease, stroke, dementia, and premature death.
The Unseen Impact
Sidhharrth S Kumaar, Chief Happiness Officer at NumroVani, drew attention to the adoption of unhealthy lifestyle habits as a coping mechanism for loneliness. Smoking, drinking, inactivity, and poor eating habits can become crutches for those grappling with isolation.
Root Causes of Loneliness
Loneliness, often a subjective emotional state, stems from various factors. A widening generation gap, changes in living arrangements favoring nuclear families, excessive use of social media, and financial instability are identified as primary drivers. The ongoing pandemic has exacerbated this crisis due to halted economic and social activities.
Strategies to Combat Loneliness
While there is no one-size-fits-all solution to combat loneliness, there are practical tips to alleviate its impact:
1. Curating Self-Care Rituals: Develop proactive and personalized self-care rituals encompassing the mind, body, and soul.
2. Hobbies and Activities: Identify and engage in activities that bring joy, allocating scheduled time for pursuits like painting, pottery, photography, or trekking.
3. Volunteer Activities: Dedicate time to social causes, volunteering at old age homes, orphanages, or NGOs for a sense of fulfillment.
4. Rejuvenate Relationships: Foster meaningful relationships and build a support system to counteract loneliness.
5. Reprogramming Subconscious Mind: Embrace personalized programs like mindfulness and meditation to reprogram the subconscious mind.
In the face of this silent epidemic, seeking professional help proactively and without hesitation is crucial. As the world grapples with the implications of loneliness, these steps offer a beacon of hope and resilience against this pervasive health threat.