The Health Impact of Loneliness

This chapter examines the rising issue of loneliness and its serious health implications, likening its risks to those of smoking 15 cigarettes a day. It discusses key research findings, including a meta-analysis that reveals the correlation between social connections and survival rates, especially among older adults. Furthermore, the chapter explores the biological motivations behind loneliness, emphasizing its complex nature as both a social driver and a potential health hazard.