The growing epidemic of loneliness
Loneliness, a growing global concern, affects nearly a quarter of the population, as revealed by a Gallup survey. This epidemic of solitude is often accompanied by physical and emotional distress. Dr. Sue Varma offers strategies for coping.
HEALTHLIFESTYLELONELINESS
Michael G
7/30/20241 min read
Summary
The video discusses the issue of loneliness, highlighting its significant impact on physical and mental health. It cites a Gallup survey indicating a high prevalence of loneliness and emphasizes its link to various health problems including heart disease, stroke, and dementia. Dr. Sue Varma, a psychiatrist, is interviewed about the causes and effects of loneliness. She stresses the importance of quality social connections, the decline of in-person interactions among young people, and the need for intentional effort to build and maintain relationships.
Five Less Commonly Used Words
1. Predispose /ˌpriːdəˈspoʊz/ - to make someone likely to suffer from a particular illness or condition.
2. Alienated /ˈeɪliəneɪtɪd/ - feeling isolated and unable to relate to other people.
3. Subjectively /səbˈdʒektɪvli/ - based on or influenced by personal feelings, tastes, or opinions.
4. Validated /ˈvælɪdeɪtɪd/ - confirmed or supported by evidence.
5. Deliberate /dɪˈlɪbərət/ - done consciously and intentionally.
Questions
1. What is the main health risk associated with loneliness?
2. Why do young people seem to be more affected by loneliness than older generations?
3. What is Dr. Varma's advice for combating loneliness?
Answers
1. Loneliness is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, dementia, and premature mortality.
2. Young people are more affected by loneliness due to increased academic and financial pressure, a decline in in-person interactions, and a lack of safe havens for emotional support.
3. Dr. Varma advises scheduling social interactions, prioritizing quality relationships, and being intentional about building and maintaining connections.