By Rita Aggarwal
In today’s world, loneliness is no longer just a fleeting emotion; it has grown into a public health concern. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that social isolation and loneliness are both increasingly being recognised as a priority public health problem and policy issue across all age groups. During the course of the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021-2030), the Demographic Change and Healthy Ageing Unit will be addressing social isolation and loneliness as one of the themes that cuts across the four main action areas of the Decade.
Most recently, the Covid-19 pandemic, made this reality starkly visible, with its enforced lockdowns and social isolation. But the impact of loneliness goes far beyond feeling disconnected — it disturbs our peace, weakens the body’s immunity, and can lead to serious mental and physical health issues.
In his 2023 advisory, Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation, US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy highlighted the extent of the problem. He revealed that loneliness increases the risk of premature death by up to 30%, comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. It is also linked with a 29% increased risk of heart disease and a 32% increased risk of stroke, along with increased risk for anxiety, depression, and dementia. The lack of social connection may increase susceptibility to viruses and respiratory illnesses. The harmful consequences of a society that lacks social connection can be felt in our schools, workplaces, and civic organizations, where performance, productivity, and engagement are diminished. The advisory advocates for social connection as a vital part of public health.
The Ripple Effect: How Loneliness Threatens Peace
The effects of poor mental health aren’t confined to individuals — they ripple out into society. When loneliness festers, it breeds frustration, conflict, and distrust. Distorted perceptions of reality arise, paving the way for violence, extremism, and a breakdown of community cooperation. A fractured society struggles to foster peace, as interpersonal conflicts escalate, and tolerance diminishes.
In contrast, connections that promote empathy, compassion, and kindness are crucial for societal harmony. Decades of research, including the 84-year Harvard Study of Adult Development, consistently show that strong relationships — not wealth or fame — are the key to lasting happiness and a fulfilling life.
Where Are We Losing Touch?
If relationships are so vital, why are we growing increasingly isolated? The modern world often cocoons us in individualism, pushing us into virtual bubbles of social media, where genuine human interaction is rare. We are witnessing a slow erosion of empathy and community bonds.
What’s stopping us from reaching out to others? It’s time to reflect on how indifference, fear of judgment, and a lack of time are driving us further apart. Yet, all hope is not lost. We can still rekindle the connections that bring us closer together and, in turn, foster peace and mental well-being.
Growing Focus On Building Communities For Social Support
Across the globe, there has been a renewed emphasis on community-building initiatives aimed at addressing the rising tide of loneliness and social isolation. As societies evolve, the idea of social spaces — both physical and virtual — has undergone a transformation. Governments, NGOs, corporations, and social enterprises are now recognising the need for fostering human connections to improve mental well-being.
In India, public and private sector is stepping in to bridge the growing social divide. Indian Government’s Atal Innovation Mission focuses on fostering community-based innovation hubs that encourage youth engagement, while various CSR-led programs aim to bring together marginalised groups through education, vocational training, and social enterprises. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has also rolled out initiatives aimed at elderly care, ensuring that older generations remain socially engaged and connected to their communities.
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A Path Forward: Skills To Foster Peace And Connection
What if we could all learn the simple yet powerful skills of active listening, empathy, and non-judgment? If all parents, teachers, guardians learnt these three -valuable practical helping skills we would witness a dramatic growth of polite language, good relationships, social bonds, trusting behavior, supportive atmosphere, positive culture for peace, inner peace and mental harmony. Conversely, you would observe a steady decline in interpersonal conflict, bullying, teasing, ragging, aggressive assaults, and discord.
Dr. Bruce Perry and Oprah Winfrey’s book What Happened to You? provides an insightful shift in how we perceive others, especially those who have faced trauma. Instead of asking, “What’s wrong with you?” we should ask, “What happened to you?” This empathetic approach can build stronger bonds between people from diverse backgrounds, fostering greater understanding and cohesion in our increasingly fragmented society.
Breaking The Silence Around Mental Health
India is seeing a growing recognition of mental health challenges, particularly as the country grapples with rapid urbanisation, the pressures of modern life, and the lingering impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. However, the stigma surrounding mental health continues to prevent people in our communities from seeking the help they need, contributing to a silent epidemic of suffering.
As we continue to confront the loneliness epidemic and its far-reaching consequences, fostering meaningful relationships becomes more important than ever. Studies consistently show that strong social connections are a protective factor against mental health issues, enhancing both emotional and physical well-being. Efforts to nurture empathy, active listening, and care in relationships not only help individuals, but also contribute to broader societal harmony. Communities that prioritize mental health, openness, and support are better equipped to combat loneliness and build resilience against future challenges.
Rita Aggarwal is Chair - Rotary Action Group on Mental Health Initiatives ((2025-2028), and Consulting Psychologist, Mental Health Initiatives Advisor Rotary district 3030
[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]