The effects of loneliness on health

The feeling of loneliness is a human universal that is very complex and that is felt uniquely by each individual. . Because it has no common causes, prevention and treatment of this potentially damaging mood can vary dramatically from person to person. For example, a lonely child struggling to make friends at school will have different needs than a lonely older adult whose life partner has recently died. . This article aims to present the notion of loneliness, as well as the different causes that underlie it, the consequences it can have on health, the associated manifestations and the potential treatments that can help.

Article content\n \n \n . ro or from the SfatulMedicului mobile application (iOS, Android)\n . However, loneliness is a state of mind that can make people feel empty, alone, isolated and unwanted. People who feel lonely often yearn for human contact, but their mood makes it more difficult to form bonds with other people. Researchers suggest that loneliness is associated with , poor social skills, introversion and depression.

Loneliness, according to many experts, does not necessarily mean the physical absence of some people around. Instead, it refers to how a person's mood is affected, producing feelings of loneliness and isolation. For example, a student who has just entered college might feel lonely despite being surrounded by classmates or roommates. . Likewise, a soldier starting his military career might feel lonely after being deployed to a foreign country, despite being constantly surrounded by other fellow soldiers.

. Taking these aspects into account, it can be observed that people can actually be alone and not feel lonely, or they can have permanent contact with other people and still experience feelings of isolation and loneliness. Although research has clearly shown that loneliness and isolation are bad for both mental and physical health, it must be understood that loneliness is not the same as solitude. . In fact, solitude actually has a number of important mental health benefits, allowing people to focus and recharge better.

. Loneliness is marked by feelings of isolation despite the desire to have social connections. It is often perceived as an involuntary separation, rejection or abandonment by other people. Loneliness, on the other hand, is voluntary. People who enjoy spending time alone continue to maintain positive social relationships that they can return to when they feel the need to connect with others.

. In the case of loneliness, people spend time with other people, but these interactions alternate balanced with periods of time alone. Among the factors that contribute to loneliness are situational variables, such as physical isolation, moving to a new location, changing jobs or divorce. The death of a significant other can also lead to feelings of loneliness for those close to you. Loneliness can even be a manifestation of a psychological condition, such as.

The latter often causes people to withdraw socially, which can lead to isolation. Specialized studies emphasize that loneliness can be a factor that contributes to the development of depression symptoms. Loneliness can also be attributed to internal factors, such as. People who do not trust themselves often feel that they are not worthy of other people's attention or consideration, which can lead to isolation and chronic loneliness. .

Personality factors can also play an important role. For example, introverts may be less likely to make and seek social connections, which can contribute to feelings of isolation and loneliness. . Loneliness can have a wide range of negative effects on both physical and mental health of a person. For example, lonely people may adopt antisocial behavior, abuse alcohol and drugs, experience memory and learning disorders, and experience difficulties in making decisions.

. In loneliness, the functionality of the brain suffers, the stress level can increase and depression and suicidal thoughts can occur. . Cardiovascular diseases can also occur, and where there is, a progression of Alzheimer's disease will be observed. These are not the only areas where loneliness leaves its mark.

For example, lonely adults exercise less than those who do not have these feelings. The diet of people who feel lonely is richer in fats, sleep is less efficient, and the level of fatigue increases. Loneliness disrupts the regulation of cellular processes deep within the body and predisposes people to premature aging. Also, loneliness can be a trigger for chronic inflammation and can even increase the risk of premature death. .

Specialized research indicates that people who feel less alone are more likely to be married, have higher incomes and have a higher level of education. High levels of loneliness are associated with various health conditions and with reduced and low-quality social relationships. Statistics suggest that loneliness is more and more widespread, especially among the younger generations. According to a 2012 survey9, 25% of adults between the ages of 18 and 27 said they had no close friends, while 22% said they had no friends at all. The increase in time spent using the Internet and, ironically, social networks, are partly to blame.

Experts believe that it is not the quantity of social interaction that combats loneliness, but its quality. Therefore, having a few close people is enough to ward off loneliness and to reduce the negative health consequences that can be associated with this state of mind. In addition, the experience of real face-to-face contact with friends helps to amplify people's feelings of well-being. A study suggests that loneliness can be contagious. Research has suggested that people who do not experience loneliness and who spend time with lonely people are more likely to develop feelings of loneliness.

Loneliness is a situation that can be overcome and it takes a conscious effort to make a change about it. In the long run, making a positive change can make a person happier and healthier and have a positive impact on the people around them. . Engaging in different activities that create pleasure and cultivating new friendships and social interactions are the first steps in managing loneliness. .

it is very important. Single people often expect rejection, so try to focus on positive thoughts and attitudes about social relationships. . People who struggle with loneliness must accept that a change is needed and that in order to do so certain measures must be taken. Quality relationships must be developed, and these can be achieved with people who share similar attitudes, interests and values.

The effects of loneliness on life must be detected and understood, and then an additional effort must be made to combat them. Finally, discussions with a close and trusted person can be helpful. Collaboration with a therapist can also be considered, as it is an excellent option and has a high chance of success. . Bibliography:\r\n\r\n.

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