Loneliness as a public health epidemic

 The U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy called loneliness a public health epidemic, and yet people rarely admit that they are lonely or socially isolated. Studies show that we are more willing to admit to any number of physical ailments than to admit we are lonely.
 
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defined loneliness as a “feeling like you do not have meaningful or close relationships or a sense of belonging.” To lack meaningful or close relationships, to lack a sense of belonging, can be exceptionally damaging to a person’s mental health. Studies show there is a high correlation between loneliness and depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges.
 
Loneliness isn't a numbers game; you can feel lonely in a crowded room. Loneliness involves feeling emotionally disconnected from others, either because they don't care, respect, or understand you. 
 
So, loneliness is about the quality of our social interactions rather than the quantity. Another way of putting it is that loneliness is defined by a gap between your expectation for meaningful social connection, and the reality you experience.
 
It can be one of the most powerful experiences to work with a therapist and figure out your approach to a relationship. You might do things without realizing it, setting yourself up for a fall, and yet when you form a relationship with a therapist, you can start to understand those patterns.
 
If you need to speak to an experienced psychotherapist about loneliness, book online for a free callback.

Chris Warren-Dickins
Psychotherapist in Ridgewood, New Jersey
Explore Transform LLC