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Loneliness and social isolation can have significant negative impacts on both mental and physical health.
Here are some of the key risks associated with these conditions:
- Depression and Anxiety: Sustained feelings of loneliness can lead to anxiety and depression.
- Suicidality and Self-harm: There’s an increased risk for suicidality and self-harm among those who experience chronic loneliness.
- Heart Disease and Stroke: Social isolation and loneliness can increase a person’s risk for heart disease and stroke.
- Type 2 Diabetes: There’s an increased risk for type 2 diabetes among those who are socially isolated.
- Weakened Immune System: Social isolation can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and diseases.
- Obesity: There’s a higher risk for obesity among those who are socially isolated.
- Dementia: Chronic loneliness can lead to cognitive decline and increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
- Earlier Death: Lack of social connections can increase your risk of premature death to levels that are similar to people who smoke daily.