The Health Impact of Loneliness
A survey by Cigna conducted in May of 2018 revealed that nearly half of Americans report sometimes or always feeling alone or left out and that Generation Z (adults ages 18-22) is the loneliest generation.
“Loneliness has the same impact on mortality as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, making it even more dangerous than obesity,” Douglas Nemecek, M.D., Chief Medical Officer for Behavioral Health at Cigna, stated in the full report.
The survey also showed that people are less lonely when they have regular meaningful in-person interactions, are in good overall physical and mental health, have achieved balance in daily activities, and are employed and have good relationships with their coworkers.
“There is an inherent link between loneliness and the workplace, with employers in a unique position to be a critical part of the solution,” said Nemecek.
Community Health Charities works with companies to engage employees and provides health and wellness resources. Interested in starting a wellness program? Be sure to read our Health and Wellness Guide for more information. Plus, access our mental health resources or check out our list of winter activities you can do with family and friends.
