Humans, we may not love them, but we, unfortunately, are social animals and without social activity, there are negative health effects that have been underestimated, especially to our hearts and brains.
Published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, researchers reviewed almost 40 years worth research, published through July of 2021 and found several overlooked health detriments that come from loneliness and social isolation. For one thing, they found that feelings of social isolation and loneliness increased risk of a heart attack or dying from heart disease by 29%, and increased risk of stroke by 32%.
Other findings:
- Lack of social connection is linked to an increase risk of premature death from all causes and is more significant in men
- Social isolation and loneliness were associated with elevated inflammatory markers
- You think being around people is stressful? Loneliness and social isolation was associated with elevated symptoms of chronic stress
- Social isolation and depression share a positive feedback loop
- Childhood social isolation increased cardiovascular risk factors in adulthood
- Social isolation is increases unhealthy behaviors
Overall, they’re conclusion in their position statement from the published article was that feeling of loneliness and social isolation is under-recognized risk factors for cardiovascular and brain health.
The poignant findings of the study can have several ramifications regarding how we should live our lives and what is considered healthy lifestyle. One such lesson is addressing how we can improve the quality of life of older adults where an estimated 25% is adults older than 65 years or older are socially isolated. In addition, younger people are experiencing more social isolation and loneliness, likely from increased social media and smartphone dependency. Other factors including: discrimination or fear of, political divides, pandemics, disabilities, living arrangements, constant dissatisfaction, and natural disasters can all factor into elevating the risk of individuals’ social state.
The importance of going out and socializing, developing social skills and learning from others, cannot be overemphasized. Get off your smartphones and video games, and find ways to get out of your home and meet people.
CW Cené et al. Effects of objective and perceived social isolation on cardiovascular and brain health: a scientific statement from the American Heart Association. Journal of the American Heart Association. doi.org/10.1161/JAHA.122.026493
