Loneliness is emerging as a serious public health concern, with growing scientific evidence showing that prolonged lack of meaningful social connections can have health effects comparable to major risk factors such as smoking and obesity.
Once viewed mainly as an emotional experience, loneliness is now recognised as a condition that can affect both physical and mental health, increasing the risk of chronic diseases and premature death.
In November 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) classified loneliness and social isolation among major global public health challenges requiring increased attention.
Studies have linked loneliness to higher risks of heart disease, mental health disorders, and early mortality. A 2022 study published in the journal Heart, involving more than 460,000 participants in the United Kingdom, found that people experiencing loneliness had increased risks of heart disease and premature death compared with those with stronger social connections.
A separate review led by Professor Julianne Holt-Lunstad of Brigham Young University in the United States, which examined more than 140 studies involving over three million people, found that loneliness and social isolation were associated with a 26–32 percent increase in the risk of premature death.
Holt-Lunstad said strong social relationships should be considered an essential component of a healthy lifestyle, alongside balanced nutrition, physical activity, and avoiding harmful habits such as smoking.
Experts emphasise that loneliness is different from simply being alone. Someone can live alone and feel content, while another person may be surrounded by people but still experience loneliness due to a lack of meaningful support and connection.
WHO estimates that nearly one in six people worldwide experiences loneliness, affecting young people, adults, and older persons for different reasons.
Among older adults, loneliness may result from losing close companions or living far from family members, while young people may experience it due to excessive reliance on digital platforms, relocation, or reduced opportunities for face-to-face interaction.
Researchers say prolonged loneliness can activate the body’s stress response, increasing levels of hormones such as cortisol. Over time, this may contribute to high blood pressure, weakened immunity, diabetes, heart disease, and depression.
Loneliness can also influence daily behaviours, as some affected individuals may become less physically active, adopt unhealthy eating habits, or delay seeking medical care.
WHO notes that the strength and quality of social relationships are more important than the number of connections a person has. Feeling supported, understood, and valued plays a key role in protecting overall health.
Health experts recommend addressing loneliness by maintaining regular contact with family and friends, participating in community activities, joining social groups, exercising with others, and creating a healthier balance between digital and real-life interactions.
To address the growing challenge, WHO has established an international commission on social connection bringing together experts and leaders from different countries to develop strategies for reducing loneliness and strengthening social bonds worldwide.
