Dr. Vivek Murthy, former US Surgeon General and author of 'Together,' joins Ros Urwin to explore the pervasive issue of loneliness. He shares insights on how it contributes to anxiety, depression, and even societal challenges like addiction and violence. Their conversation delves into the harmful health impacts of isolation, comparing it to smoking, and emphasizes the urgency of fostering human connections. They discuss navigating loneliness in our digital age and the potential of relationships to strengthen communities and combat polarization.
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insights INSIGHT
Loneliness vs. Isolation
Loneliness is a subjective feeling of lacking needed connections, not simply isolation.
It's distinct from isolation, as one can be surrounded by people yet feel lonely.
insights INSIGHT
Loneliness: A Subjective Experience
Loneliness is a subjective experience where desired connections exceed actual ones.
It differs from isolation (an objective measure) and can occur even when surrounded by people.
insights INSIGHT
Three Types of Loneliness
Loneliness has three types: intimate, relational, and collective.
Understanding these helps explain why someone in a fulfilling relationship can still feel lonely.
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The Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely World
Vivek Murthy
In this book, Dr. Vivek Murthy makes a compelling case for loneliness as a major public health concern, comparable in harm to smoking. He argues that loneliness affects not only individual health but also societal cohesion, contributing to issues such as addiction, violence, depression, and anxiety. The book is divided into sections on understanding loneliness and building more connected lives, offering strategies like spending time with loved ones, focusing on each other, embracing solitude, and helping others. Murthy draws from personal experiences, scientific research, and community examples to illustrate the negative impacts of loneliness and the healing power of human connection.
In this week's episode former Surgeon General of the United States, Dr Vivek Murthy speaks to Ros Urwin about how he discovered first hand how loneliness lies behind some of our greatest personal and societal challenges, from anxiety and depression to addiction and violence. To find out more and buy Dr Murthy's new book 'Together: Loneliness, Health and What Happens When We Find Connection' click here: https://amzn.to/3ckrolG.
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