Social isolation and loneliness – a growing health crisis

Research indicates that social isolation and loneliness are a global problem. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), insufficient social contact and feelings of loneliness are experienced by one in four adults. Additionally, it is estimated that at least 5–15% of adolescents feel lonely. In the US, one study suggests that a third of the over-45 population has experienced feelings of loneliness. Certain demographic groups appear to be particularly exposed, including those on low incomes, young adults, the elderly, those living alone or single parents, people suffering from chronic disease or disability, and immigrants facing language barriers and/or discrimination.²

Social isolation can be broadly characterised in terms of contact frequency, quantity of relationships, and/or density of interpersonal networks. Marginal social contact may also result in insufficient access to support in times of physical or mental crises, and other situations when personal contact, access to emergency services and/or welfare institutions are needed. Social isolation has been linked to an increased likelihood of health complications, accidents, malnutrition and other factors that can compromise overall well-being.³

Loneliness is a subjective feeling of isolation that affects personal well-being. Perceived and objective social isolation can be damaging and are often intertwined.⁴ A growing body of research links social isolation and loneliness to an increased risk of depression, anxiety, addiction, self-harm and suicidal tendencies, all these in addition to increased incidents of type-2 diabetes, dementia, heart disease and strokes.⁵ Estimates suggest that social isolation and loneliness lead to, for instance, a 50% increase in the risk of onset of dementia, and around a 30% increase in the likelihood of heart conditions.⁶ Collectively, these factors can contribute to higher morbidity rates and premature death. Studies have also suggested that the mortality risk from loneliness and social isolation may be comparable to that of cigarette smoking, alcohol, physical inactivity and obesity.⁷

The COVID-19 lockdown and social distancing measures impacted the personal relationships and mental health of many individuals, irrespective of age. Researchers continue to investigate both the short- and long-term mental health impacts of the pandemic.⁸ In May 2023, the US Department of Health and Human Services raised the alarm on an “epidemic of loneliness.”⁹ Acknowledging the adverse impacts that the pandemic had on social connections, in November 2023 the WHO established the new Commission on Social Connection to “address loneliness as a pressing concern to health.”¹⁰

With increasing urbanisation and a shift in socioeconomic trends such as the rise of single-person households and anonymous living in apartment blocks/neighbourhoods, social isolation and loneliness can be expected to persist. In ageing societies, and with the large cohort of baby boomers retired or retiring, the proportion of the workingage population capable of providing the required professional or private care services is diminishing. As demand exceeds supply, social isolation and feelings loneliness could be further exacerbated.