This article is a summary of Speaking of Psychology Episode 190, the flagship podcast of the American Psychological Association, led by Kim Mills. The podcast explores the connections between psychological science and everyday life. In this episode, Louise Hawkley, PhD, a principal research scientist at NORC at the University of Chicago, delves into the pressing issue of loneliness, which has become increasingly significant, especially after the social disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Even before the pandemic, concerns were rising about an epidemic of loneliness in America. Dr. Hawkley discusses the important distinctions between being alone and experiencing loneliness, the adverse effects loneliness can have on our mental and physical health, and whether loneliness is indeed more widespread in today's world. She also provides insights into how we can identify and tackle the root causes of loneliness, offering valuable perspectives on how to address this growing concern. You can find a link to the podcast and a full transcription of the episode at the end of this article.
Loneliness is a subjective feeling of being alone, even when surrounded by others, while social isolation refers to the objective state of having few social connections or infrequent interactions. Dr. Louise Hawkley explains that these concepts, although related, are not the same. You can feel lonely without being socially isolated, and you can be socially isolated without feeling lonely. Understanding this distinction is crucial because it highlights how loneliness is more about the quality of our relationships than the quantity.
Loneliness has significant impacts on both mental and physical health. Dr. Hawkley notes that it is strongly linked to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, as well as a general decline in well-being, where individuals feel less purpose and meaning in life. Physically, loneliness can lead to serious health problems, including cardiovascular issues like hypertension, heart disease, and stroke. It also contributes to cognitive decline, dementia, and a higher risk of early death. Additionally, loneliness can influence gene expression, increasing inflammation in the body and worsening chronic illnesses.
Loneliness negatively affects lifestyle behaviors by reducing physical activity and disrupting sleep patterns. People who feel lonely are more likely to experience poor sleep quality, which in turn exacerbates health problems. These unhealthy behaviors create a cycle that makes it even harder for lonely individuals to improve their health and well-being, highlighting the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and behavioral health.
Certain age groups, particularly young adults and the oldest old (ages 80-85 and above), are more susceptible to loneliness. Young adults often struggle with finding their place in the world, while older adults face the challenges of losing social connections, declining health, and reduced independence. However, contrary to popular belief, older adults are not always the loneliest demographic. Baby Boomers, for example, tend to be less lonely than previous generations due to their broader social networks and greater autonomy.
Yes, individual differences in social needs play a significant role in how loneliness is experienced. Dr. Hawkley emphasizes that people vary in the amount of social interaction they require. Some people are perfectly content with minimal social contact, while others need more frequent interaction to feel fulfilled. Even those who enjoy solitude can experience negative health outcomes if their isolation becomes long-term, illustrating the importance of meeting each person's unique social needs.
To address loneliness, Dr. Hawkley recommends finding ways to connect with others who share similar interests, challenging negative thoughts that contribute to feelings of loneliness, and seeking professional help if necessary. She also highlights the importance of community and societal efforts to create environments where everyone feels included and connected. These strategies can help mitigate the effects of loneliness and improve overall well-being.
Addressing loneliness is crucial because it is not just an emotional issue but a significant public health concern. The wide-ranging effects of loneliness on mental, physical, and behavioral health make it essential for both individuals and communities to take action. By understanding and addressing loneliness, we can improve the well-being of those affected and create a healthier, more connected society.
Read the full transcript and listen to the full episode of Speaking on Psychology here: https://www.apa.org/news/podcasts/speaking-of-psychology/loneliness-pandemic