Loneliness and social isolation are the new public health crisis, with risks to health on par with smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day. New research uncovers a shocking reality. They shine a much-needed light on the devastating impact of loneliness on physical and mental health. Tyler Prochnow, an assistant professor at Texas A&M University, encourages professionals across all sectors to focus on building social connectedness to improve quality of life.
Prochnow says the effects of loneliness go beyond the emotional—worsening heart disease and even increasing the risk of early death. He claims that the health hazards linked to social disconnection are deep and can result in major healthcare tragedies. Prochnow’s work focuses on the relationships among social connectedness, physical activity, and mental health. His expertise, then, has naturally positioned him as an authoritative voice in this very important field to research.
The link between loneliness and suicide, heart disease, stroke, and other health risks has been climbing up the public agenda in recent years. Prochnow emphasizes that loneliness can increase stress and anxiety levels. This heightened emotional state can set off an array of health issues, from cardiovascular disease to compromised immune system. The negative impacts of loneliness have not only been compared to those of smoking, but highlight the critical level of awareness and action required today.
Prochnow encourages communities to take proactive measures to fight loneliness, especially in neighborhoods where social isolation is common. He challenges people to build community through collective activity, service as a vocation, or coalition-building. Each of these steps not only improves the quality of one’s own life but helps create a greater, more relational world.
Recent studies have found that social support is the most important factor in buffering the health effects of loneliness. Participation in routine, enjoyable, group exercise serves the dual purpose of creating increased physical fitness and stronger social ties. Prochnow highlights that simple acts of reaching out to friends or family members can significantly impact mental health and overall quality of life.
