Not only diseases lead to death, but social isolation or loneliness can also increase the risk of premature death by up to 32%, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). In a new episode of the "Science in Five" program broadcasted on official WHO platforms, Alana Officer, head of the Demographic Change and Healthy Ageing division at the international organization, revealed how social isolation affects human health and offered tips to overcome it.
Dr. Officer stated that there is very strong scientific evidence that loneliness and social isolation have significant impacts on mortality and health. For example, social isolation and feelings of loneliness increase the risk of premature death by between 14% and 32%, which is comparable to other known risk factors such as smoking, physical inactivity, and obesity. It also raises the risk of poor physical health, such as an increase in the likelihood of stroke and cardiovascular diseases by about 30%, as well as a 50% increase in the risk of mental health issues like dementia, along with experiencing anxiety and depression.
Dr. Officer further explained that the negative impact of social isolation and loneliness extends beyond health to include opportunities for education and work. She clarified that individuals who do not feel supported or feel isolated in the workplace tend to have lower job performance. Interestingly, current research indicates that these effects are similar worldwide.
Dr. Officer mentioned that there are many steps that can be easily taken, such as investing in and nurturing current relationships with family and friends, and re-evaluating the priorities and value one places on social interaction. Joining community groups is one opportunity, as well as volunteering or engaging in activities of interest, whether in music, sports, art, or reading.
She added that a person can easily engage in small talk with neighbors or store employees while shopping for necessities. Dr. Officer cautioned that when a person is in conversations, they should minimize distractions by setting their phone aside or, at the very least, not looking at it too much.
