loneliness is far more than just a bad feeling being socially disconnected which can range from feeling alone to being isolated is bad both for individual and societal health research shows that loneliness and isolation are associated with a greater risk of heart disease dementia stroke depression anxiety and premature death in fact lacking connection can increase the risk of premature death to levels comparable to smoking daily loneliness and social isolation are also far more common than we might realize about one in two American adults report experiencing loneliness everyone can be impacted across all ages socioeconomic conditions and
geographies this widespread disconnection presents profound threats to our health and well-being social connection is as fundamental to our mental and physical health as food water and sleep and it affects our performance and productivity at work school and our communities now is the time to invest in building social connection this first ever surgeon general's advisory and our epidemic of loneliness and isolation shows us how the keys to connection are simple answer a phone call from a friend invite someone over to share a meal listen and be present during conversation seek out opportunities to serve others these
steps may seem small but they're extraordinarily powerful power ful by strengthening our relationships we can improve our heart and brain health reduce our risk of diabetes and high blood pressure boost our immune systems and lower our risk of depression we can build lives and communities that are healthier and happier and we can ensure our country and the world are better poised than ever to take on the challenges that lie ahead visit surgeongeneral.gov SL connection to learn more [Music]
