Loneliness: Who warns of a global health risk!

Loneliness: Who warns of a global health risk!

Schmalkalden-Meiningen, Deutschland - The topic of loneliness and social isolation is more than ever in the focus of the public discussion. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around every sixth person worldwide affects loneliness. This problem leads to profound health consequences and arouses worrying alarm bells in the global community. Every year, loneliness and social isolation lead to around 871,000 deaths worldwide, which exerts massive pressure on the health systems and causes billions. [Insuedthueringen.de] (https://www.insuedthueringen.de/inhalt. Endiness-und- isolation-Who-schlaeGT-Alarm-macht-macht-micht-lich Rang to depression and suicide.

It is particularly alarming that lonely teenagers have a 22% higher probability of achieving poorer grades. Adults who suffer from loneliness face challenges when it comes to jobs and their preservation. The WHO Commission, which deals intensively with the topic, defines loneliness as a painful feeling, while social isolation is described as an objective state. Over 30% of the elderly and 25% of young people are particularly affected in this regard, whereby the causes are wide -ranging - from diseases to educational difficulties to digital technologies that are increasingly hindering personal exchange.

global priority: the WHO focuses on loneliness

The WHO has declared the problem of loneliness to be a global priority. As can be read on pm-report.de, a commission will be working on a comprehensive plan from 2024 to 2026 to promote social connections worldwide. This wants to contain the serious effects of loneliness on health in all age groups and regions and develop new solutions.

A remarkable part of the strategy are concrete measures that are to be implemented by the Federal Government of Germany. Among other things, the “strategy against loneliness” was adopted, which includes 111 measures in order to combat the topic sustainably. Strong voices from politics, such as those of Lisa Paus, the Federal Minister of Family, Seniors, Women and Youth, emphasize the social challenges that brings loneliness.

A look at international examples

Sweden is cited as a positive example. There is actively working on the promotion of social contacts in various areas of life. Shops, restaurants, neighborhoods and clubs receive special attention to strengthen social interaction. In addition, a ban on cell phones in public schools is also planned in the Swedish education system, with the aim of supporting direct interaction among young people and curbbing. These approaches could also serve as a model for other countries that have to deal with similar loneliness problems.

An impressive report from Tanzania illustrates the global dimensions: a man reports on his visit to an old people's home, where the isolation of the seniors was clearly felt. This clarifies that loneliness is not just a problem of rich countries. In Europe it is only a tenth of the population that feels lonely, while in Africa the quota is considerably higher in Africa. [sueddeutsche.de] (https://www.sueddeutsche.de/gesundheit/ Endressure-alleinsein-Who-bericht-li.3275124) emphasizes that these cultural differences are decisive for the feeling of loneliness.

The solution to loneliness goes beyond individual help. Community -based initiatives that promote social contacts, as well as programs in cafés or meeting places already show positive effects. The commercial sector is also asked to take responsibility and develop innovative ideas in order to counteract loneliness.

In summary, it can be said that loneliness is a serious problem that affects not only those affected themselves, but also our communities and societies. The action is required - to counteract loneliness and strengthen the social bonds.