Loneliness as Harmful as Smoking 15 Cigarettes a Day: Expert Tips to Overcome It

Loneliness is not just a personal issue people battle, but it is soon on its way to becoming a global health hazard. According to experts, the mortality effects of loneliness are equivalent to smoking

at least 15 cigarettes a day. The COVID-19 pandemic, according to the World Health Organisation, which halted most social interactions, increased levels of loneliness, and is still affecting people. According to mental health experts, most people today suffer from anxiety and depression but are too shy to reach out for solutions. Doctors also blame social media, where most people, especially youngsters, are seeking digital connections, rather than personal ones.

Loneliness is as bad as smoking 15 cigarettes

According to experts, the health risks of loneliness are as bad as smoking up to 15 cigarettes in a day - and even greater than those associated with obesity and physical inactivity. While loneliness is often seen as a problem for developed countries, data says the rates of one in four older people experiencing social isolation are similar in all regions of the world. A report published in The Guardian says loneliness in older people is associated with a 50 per cent increase in the risk of developing dementia and a 30 per cent rise in the risk of incident coronary artery disease or stroke.

What is loneliness?

Loneliness is defined as a universal human emotion, both complex and unique to each individual. Since it does not have a single common cause, preventing and treating this potentially damaging state of mind can vary. According to researchers, loneliness is associated with social isolation, poor social skills, introversion, and depression. Loneliness is also not necessarily about being alone. Instead, if you feel alone and isolated, then that is how loneliness plays into your state of mind. A few examples include a college freshman might feel lonely despite being surrounded by roommates and other peers. A soldier beginning their military career might feel lonely after being deployed to a foreign country, despite being constantly surrounded by other troop members.

What are the health risks associated with loneliness?

There is a wide range of negative effects on both physical and mental health associated with loneliness, which include:

• Alcohol and drug misuse
• Altered brain function
• Alzheimer's disease progression
• Antisocial behavior
• Cardiovascular disease and stroke
• Decreased memory and learning
• Depression and suicide
• Increased stress levels
• Poor decision-making

How to prevent and overcome loneliness?

Experts believe you can overcome loneliness through a conscious effort to make a change. Here are some ways to prevent it:

Engage in a community activity you enjoy

These situations are good opportunities to meet people and cultivate new friendships and social interactions.

Expect the best

Lonely people often expect rejection, so instead, try focusing on positive thoughts and attitudes in your social relationships.

Develop quality relationships

Reach out to people who share similar attitudes, interests, and values as you do.

Understand the effects of loneliness

Loneliness has physical and mental repercussions, and it is important that you recognize some of these symptoms and how they affect you physically and emotionally.

Strengthen a current relationship

Building new connections is important, but improving your existing relationships can also be a great way to combat loneliness. Try calling a friend or family member you have spoken to in a while.

Talk to a trusted friend/family member

Reaching out to someone in your life to talk about what you are feeling is important. This can be someone you know, such as a family member, but you might also consider talking to your doctor or a therapist.