Dr. Rose Bricker
In May of 2023, the Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murphy published an article with the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services. In that article, he stated that we have an epidemic of loneliness, isolation, and lack of connection in the U.S. He goes on to say, “It is so prevalent in our country, it is now considered a public health crisis.” He states, “Our relationships are a source of healing and well-being. Relationships can help us live healthier, more fulfilled, and productive lives.”
In the article, he shares the physical and emotional consequences for those who are experiencing loneliness. The physical consequences are: a 29% increased risk of heart disease, a 32% increased risk of stroke, and a 50% risk of developing dementia for older adults. The research shows the lack of social connection increases the risk of premature death by more than 60%. Those numbers are alarming! Too much time alone can lead to negative thinking and negative emotions. What can we do about feeling lonely?
Interventions for Loneliness
Music: Calming music activates our parasympathetic nervous system by releasing serotonin. This allows our body to relax, restore, and regenerate. Music soothes our nervous system. It can stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system and bring us a sense of peace.
Dancing: Movement benefits our body and mind in a huge way. Sitting for long periods of time is not good for the body. Dopamine is released with movement. This gives us a sense of pleasure and reward.
Writing: Journaling and creative writing can help us identify our feelings. When we write our feelings down it’s easier to let the feelings go.
Volunteering: Giving back to the community allows us to connect with others. This provides us with the opportunity to make new friendships and boost our mood and our quality of life.
Discover your purpose: It’s very important to have a reason to get out of bed in the morning. You can have multiple reasons to get up and get involved. It’s crucial to engage in activities that matter to you!
Nature therapy: Reconnect with the outdoors. I know it’s hot in Arizona now, but if we are mindful, we can plan early morning and late evening outings. It only takes 15 to 30 minutes to calm your nervous system and improve your mood.
Stimulate your brain: Learn something new, challenge your brain. Enroll in a class at the community center, take up a new hobby, learn a new language.
Yoga or Pilates class: Attending yoga and/or Pilates classes also gives you the opportunity to meet new people. When we engage in exercise our body releases dopamine. Dopamine provides us with a sense of well–being.
Loneliness often leads to negative thinking, anxiety, and depression. This can be devastating and lead to more isolation. You can learn how to intervene on loneliness and change the quality of your life.
If you would like more information on how to manage and intervene on loneliness, depression, anxiety, and develop healthy relationships, please call me for a 30-minute complimentary meet and greet appointment at 520-820-4079.
Learn more at bluelemonhealthandwellness.com. I’m located at Blue Lemon Therapy and Coaching, LLC, 10132 N. Oracle Road, Suite 160, Oro Valley, AZ 85704 (in the business park behind the Fairfield Inn in Oro Valley).