Since mental health and physical health are intertwined, being socially isolated or feeling lonely can lead to a variety of ailments. Studies have shown that loneliness increases the chance of early death from any cause, along with smoking, obesity, and inactivity. This means that loneliness may increase your risk for a variety of health issues, including heart disease, depression, anxiety, diabetes, and hypertension.
People may become lonely as they age, but many young individuals might experience loneliness as well because they lack a social network, are introverted, or have a medical condition or impairment. Even those who dislike making many friends can overcome their loneliness. Self-involvement in meaningful work, a hobby, or a goal helps reduce loneliness. One can make an effort to develop social connections by volunteering, joining a club or group, contacting friends or family, engaging in self-care, and, if necessary, seeking professional assistance. Loneliness can be a cause of many diseases as well as one of their symptoms. The two facets of the same coin are physical and mental health.
Due to psychosomatization, hospitals see a lot of patients. This indicates that there aren’t any physical problems or damages, but rather a strong psychological element. The four main causes of loneliness are social, emotional, situational, and chronic.
Here are 5 health problems that loneliness can cause:
1. Persistent depression or dysthymia
One of the major disorders that may be brought on by loneliness is this one. Even though this is not a physical illness, a person who has it frequently wishes to be left alone. A chronic mental health disease called dysthymia causes a person’s self-worth and confidence to steadily decline.
2. Anxiety condition, social anxiety, or isolation
When engaging with others, those who suffer from social anxiety disorder may experience illogical anxiety, fear, self-consciousness, and shame. In this situation, people consciously decide to avoid meeting new people in both social and intimate settings.
3. Chronic conditions
Those who are socially isolated frequently have high blood pressure, hypertension, heart attacks, obesity, and related health conditions. Research also shows a 29% increase in cardiac problems or disorders and a 32% increase in strokes.
4. Cancer
Researchers studying cancer have found that loneliness lowers immune system function and increases the risk of developing cancer by triggering hormonal changes brought on by stress.
5. Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is frequently more likely to develop in people who are overweight or who have serious lifestyle problems, such as inactivity. Diabetes risk factors might be exacerbated by loneliness and stress.