Social health is just as important as physical and mental health.
Feeling connected is central to our health. It can give us a purpose and add meaning to our lives. But, in today’s world, these connections are often broken and the effects of that have become a global health issue, says the World Health Organisation.
In its new report, From loneliness to social connection, the WHO brings together many years of research to investigate the issues around the importance of social health on an individual and societal level.
Some headline facts:
- 1 in 6 people are lonely.
- Feelings of social isolation are most common in younger people: 21% of 13-17 year olds and 17.5% of 18-29 year olds.
- Globally, loneliness causes approximately 871,000 deaths each year.
- The consequences of chronic loneliness are largely unrecognised.
- The highest rates of loneliness are in Africa – the lowest are in Europe.
As well as investigating the causes, the report looks into solutions such as policies, research, interventions, data and social engagement. It also discusses technology’s role in addressing isolation but warns against applying it as a silver bullet and using it in place of face-to-face experiences.
