Enhanced Social Connections Linked to Improved Health and Reduced Risk of Early Mortality

Johannesburg – The World Health Organization (WHO) Commission on Social Connection has released its global report revealing that one in six people worldwide suffers from loneliness, significantly affecting their health and overall well-being.

Loneliness contributes to an estimated 100 deaths each hour, amounting to over 871,000 fatalities annually.

The report indicates that strong social ties can enhance health and extend life.

“In this report, we shed light on loneliness and isolation as a major challenge of our time,” said Dr. Vivek Murthy, Co-chair of the WHO Commission on Social Connection and former Surgeon General of the United States.

“Our Commission provides a roadmap for fostering more connected lives and underscores the significant impacts this can have on health, education, and economic outcomes.”

WHO defines social connection as the ways in which individuals relate to and interact with one another.

Loneliness is characterized as the distressing feeling resulting from a gap between desired and actual social connections, while social isolation refers to the actual lack of adequate social interaction.

“In an age when opportunities for connection abound, more people are finding themselves isolated and lonely,” stated Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General.

“If not addressed, loneliness and social isolation will continue to inflict a heavy toll on individuals, families, and communities, costing society billions in healthcare, education, and employment.”

“I commend the Commission’s report, which underscores the extent and effects of loneliness and isolation, and identifies critical areas where we can assist individuals in forging meaningful connections.”

Scale and causes of loneliness and social isolation

Loneliness affects people across all ages, particularly youth and those in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC).

Between 17-21% of individuals aged 13-29 report feelings of loneliness, with the highest rates among teenagers.

Approximately 24% of individuals in low-income nations report feeling lonely—double the rate in high-income countries (around 11%).

“Even within a digitally connected world, many young people experience isolation,” explained Chido Mpemba, Co-chair of the WHO Commission on Social Connection and Advisor to the African Union Chairperson.

“As technology alters our lifestyles, we must ensure it fosters rather than diminishes human connections.”

“Our report emphasizes the need to integrate social connection into all policies—from digital access to health, education, and employment.”

While data on social isolation is scarce, it’s estimated that it affects up to 1 in 3 older adults and 1 in 4 adolescents.

Specific groups, including individuals with disabilities, refugees or migrants, LGBTQ+ persons, and indigenous and ethnic minorities, may face discrimination or additional barriers, making social connection more challenging.

Loneliness and social isolation stem from various factors.

These include poor health, low income and education levels, living alone, inadequate community infrastructure and public policies, and digital technologies.

The report highlights the need for awareness regarding excessive screen time or negative online interactions that may impact the mental health and well-being of young people.

Impacts on health, quality of life, and economies

Social connections can improve health across one’s lifespan. They may reduce inflammation, lower the chances of severe health issues, boost mental health, and prevent premature mortality.

They also strengthen the social fabric, contributing to healthier, safer, and more prosperous communities.

Conversely, loneliness and social isolation increase the risk of stroke, heart disease, diabetes, cognitive decline, and early death.

The psychological effects are notable, as lonely individuals are twice as likely to experience depression.

Loneliness can also lead to anxiety and thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

The ramifications extend to academic performance and employment, with lonely teenagers being 22% more likely to attain lower grades or qualifications.

Lonely adults may struggle to gain or retain employment, resulting in lower earnings over time.

On a community level, loneliness undermines social cohesion and results in billions in lost productivity and healthcare costs.

Communities with strong social connections tend to be safer, healthier, and more resilient, especially during crises.

A path to healthier societies

The WHO Commission on Social Connection’s report presents a roadmap for global action with a focus on five key areas: policy, research, interventions, improved measurement (including a global Social Connection Index), and public engagement to shift social norms and promote a global movement for social connection.

Solutions to reduce loneliness and social isolation exist at multiple levels—national, community, and individual—ranging from increasing awareness and changing national policies to enhancing social infrastructure (e.g., parks, libraries, cafés) and providing psychological support.

Most individuals can relate to loneliness.

Everyone can create change through simple, everyday actions, such as reaching out to a friend in need, setting aside their phone to engage in conversation, greeting a neighbor, joining a local group, or volunteering.

For more severe issues, it’s crucial to understand the available support and services for individuals facing loneliness.

The costs associated with social isolation and loneliness are significant, but the advantages of social connection are vast.

With the release of the Commission’s report, WHO calls on all Member States, communities, and individuals to prioritize social connection as a public health issue.

Access the full report here.