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The Crisis of Loneliness

THE NATIONAL CRISIS CALLED LONELINESS

From “LINKED IN” “America is becoming Isolation Nation.

Nearly half of respondents to a nationwide survey by health insurer Cigna say they always or sometimes feel alone, and 54% say they feel no one knows them well. Such loneliness is connected to increased risk of heart disease, stroke and premature death. The loneliest group? Young people, especially those born between the mid-1990s and early 2000s. They are less likely to have in-person social interactions, which the survey identified as a potential loneliness antidote. • Share your thoughts: #LonelyAmerica– “

This brief article, linked to the research report, is sobering to think about. In this world of social connection via technology, we have increasing numbers reporting debilitating loneliness. I knew that social isolation was the leading factor in health issues for senior citizens, so, I was shocked to read that the loneliest demographic is young people between the ages of 18-22, who also report debilitating health issues.

So what can we do…

Nurture relationships within the family and with friends. Spend time talking with one another.
Create space that allows time for others. And, by the way, creating space for prayer becomes vital to a developing relationship with God.
Commit to visiting the lonely. Groups like Little Brothers-Friends of the Elderly,
Lutheran Social Services Neighbor to Neighbor provide opportunities to spend special times with special people.

Share your thoughts….

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