Loneliness worse than stimulants and as harmful as 15 cigarettes a day, study finds
Konrad Siwik,09.09.2024 15:30Loneliness poses a serious issue with profound implications not only for emotional well-being but also for physical and mental health. Recent studies indicate that its detrimental effects can be as severe as those of addictions, such as smoking. But can loneliness truly have such a damaging impact on our health?
Research from Ruhr University Bochum in Germany has revealed that loneliness poses a significant threat to both mental and physical health. Professor Dirk Scheele, a social neuroscience expert, highlighted in an interview with Mediengruppe Bayern that loneliness notably raises the risk of numerous diseases.
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"We know from many studies that loneliness is a risk factor for both mental illnesses and somatic diseases," Scheele stated.
Loneliness more dangerous than stimulants
An analysis involving over 300,000 participants found that individuals with limited social connections are at a higher risk of premature death. According to Scheele, the impact of loneliness on health can be as harmful as smoking or alcohol abuse.
"The meta-analysis shows that loneliness and social isolation are as damaging to health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day," Professor Scheele explained.
The findings from the meta-analysis suggest that social isolation has a similarly negative impact on health as smoking 15 cigarettes daily. Those suffering from isolation face a heightened risk of severe conditions, including cardiovascular disease, with an increased likelihood of stroke and heart attack by up to 30%.
Are we facing a loneliness pandemic?
While the concept of a "loneliness pandemic" has gained traction, Professor Dirk Scheele emphasises that the rise in loneliness over the past 40 years does not mean the issue affects everyone. However, social isolation is becoming increasingly prevalent, particularly among younger generations. Scheele warns that loneliness can lead to severe psychological problems, such as depression, as well as life-shortening somatic diseases.
Loneliness: A 21st-century problem
The fast pace of modern life, the rise of digitalisation, and the decline in face-to-face interactions have all contributed to the growing number of lonely people. Despite often being overlooked, research clearly demonstrates that loneliness can cause a wide range of health problems, directly impacting life expectancy. Professor Scheele highlights that the key to addressing this issue lies in fostering strong social relationships and maintaining meaningful connections with others.
