Mental Health

Unveiling the Hidden Epidemic

Mental Health Awareness: L:ets Talk about Loneliness by Dulwich Health

Breaking the Silence: Unveiling the Hidden Epidemic of Loneliness and Mental Health

Public health concerns such as smoking, high blood pressure, cancer, and more recently, COVID-19,  often take centre stage. However, lurking in the shadows lies an alarming opponent that has long evaded the spotlight: loneliness. Recent reports [1]shed light on the profound impact of loneliness on both physical and mental well-being. The toll of loneliness extends beyond emotional anguish; it can compromise physical health quite drastically, exhibiting symptoms such as;

  1. Fatigue or low energy levels
  2. Headaches
  3. Digestive issues such as stomachaches or indigestion
  4. Muscle tension or pain
  5. Sleep disturbances
  6. Weakened immune system
  7. Increased levels of inflammation in the body
  8. High blood pressure
  9.  Elevated levels of stress hormones like cortisol.

The link between loneliness and mental health is undeniable. Research has revealed alarming associations between loneliness and depressive symptoms, particularly among older adults. In 2022, 49.63% of adults (25.99 million people) in the UK reported feeling lonely occasionally, sometimes, often or always [1]. Approximately 7.1% of people in Great Britain (3.83 million) experience chronic loneliness, meaning they feel lonely ‘often or always’ [2]. This has risen from 6% (3.24 million) in 2020, indicating that there has not been a return to pre-pandemic levels of loneliness [2].

Loneliness UK Chart by Dulwich Health
NHS. (n.d.). UK Loneliness Pie chart. https://www.lewishamcfc.org.uk/loneliness/.

Loneliness can materialise in several different ways. According to the Marmalade Trust there are several different types of loneliness;

  • Emotional Loneliness – When someone you had a connection or relationship with is no longer there.
  • Social Loneliness – When you feel like you lack a social network of friends, colleagues and acquaintances.
  • Transient Loneliness – A fleeting feeling of Loneliness. It comes and goes.
  • Situational Loneliness – Loneliness felt only on certain occasions, such as the weekends and public holidays, such as Christmas.
  • Chronic Loneliness – When you feel alone all or most of the time. 

The decline in social traditions and rise of remote work have contributed to a modern society characterised by isolation and disconnection. In a world overrun with technological advancements, genuine human connections have become increasingly difficult, exacerbating feelings of loneliness and social isolation throughout the UK. Sometimes admitting we feel lonely can be difficult, but it is important to remember you are not alone! 

Remember, loneliness is a natural human emotion that we all experience at some time in our lives. Connection with others matters. It’s all about creating a supportive community by having open and frank conversations about our emotions. It is important that we can talk about feeling lonely and think of how to overcome this.Combating loneliness requires a detailed approach that involves both individual and societal interventions.

Proactive measures, include:

  • Joining classes and clubs to lead a more active lifestyle and build new community
  • Volunteering for a cause that interests you or helps others 
  • Embracing self-care practices, including proper nutrition and adequate sleep
  • Fostering a culture of empathy and compassion
  • Amplify voices of others and share personal experiences, to dismantle the barriers that prevent individuals from seeking help and support

This silent epidemic of loneliness needs focus and collective action. By recognizing its impact on mental health and embracing proactive strategies for support, we can pave the way towards a healthier, more resilient society where no one suffers in silence. Let’s break the silence, spark conversations, and ignite a movement for mental health awareness and solidarity.

The Maramalade Trust Lonliness Guide provides a three step approach to Loneliness. Their guide has a lot of helpful information on identifying loneliness and self-care tips to overcome.

If you are feeling lonely, there is help at hand! The Lets Talk Service is available to anyone experiencing loneliness, or wanting to take part in social activities.

Alternatively, you can answer 5 simple questions and get your personalised mental health plan, with tips and advice, to help you to be kind to your mind!

References