Experiencing loneliness does not necessarily indicate a failure in intimate relationships. Even in fulfilling marriages and strong connections with friends and family, one can feel lonely due to a lack of community or relational connections. It is essential to recognize that different types of relationships fulfill different social needs. Understanding this can prevent misunderstandings between partners, as feelings of loneliness may arise independently of the quality of intimate connections, highlighting the necessity for diverse social interactions to achieve overall fulfillment.
Have you ever struggled with feeling lonely — even when you’re surrounded by people you love? I have. It’s painful and confusing. In this episode, I talk to Dr. Vivek Murthy, a physician and the 19th surgeon general of the United States, about loneliness and the physical and emotional toll that social disconnection takes on us. We talk about his new book, Together, and what it takes for each of us to tilt the world toward love and connection.
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