What the US Loneliness Epidemic and Framework for Fixing it Means

I used to think loneliness was more common among older Americans. Postings on parent Facebook group chats for my kids' two colleges have taught me how wrong I've been. One parent recently wrote that her freshman daughter felt so lonely and depressed she wanted to drop out of school with weeks to finish the year. Another mom posted that her student wanted to make friends and tried to talk to others in the cafeteria and on campus, but everyone was on their phones or listening to music with their headphones. These comments have me thinking about the unintended consequences of technology, social media, the pandemic, and other factors that have changed how Americans interact.

This week, Surgeon General Vivek Murthy called attention to our country's growing public health crisis of loneliness. As early as the 1970s, studies showed Americans felt increasingly lonely. In fact, before the COVID-19 pandemic, about half of US adults reported experiencing measurable levels of loneliness. 

Feeling disconnected can significantly impact physical and mental well-being. It can lead to anxiety, depression and increase the risk of heart disease, dementia, and stroke. Lacking connections can increase the risk of premature death to levels comparable to being a daily smoker.

Murthy laid out a national framework for combating loneliness and isolation- the first ever for the US. "Our epidemic of loneliness and isolation has been an underappreciated public health crisis that has harmed individual and societal health. Our relationships are a source of healing and well-being hiding in plain sight – one that can help us live healthier, more fulfilled, and more productive lives."  

The framework includes things like designing community parks, playgrounds, and other communal spaces to bring people together, increasing public transportation, having healthcare providers screen patients about loneliness, and increasing public awareness of the physical and mental health dangers of isolation. The last item on the Surgeon General's framework is what he called "cultivating a culture of connection." This item mentioned changing the norms and culture of how we engage one another.

I've thought a lot about what this means and decided it's taking the time to appreciate and value our relationships more. It's not just texting to check in with my dad and stepmom, but picking up the phone and having real conversations with them. It's checking in on your neighbors or new employees at work and inviting them to have lunch. If you're gonna watch a game, consider having friends over or meeting at a bar or restaurant. Many of us are busier than ever these days. So lastly, when you make time to spend with others, be present. Tuck your phone away.