Can Social Prescriptions Cure the Loneliness Epidemic?

The silent epidemic of loneliness is a pervasive force affecting millions of people, especially in the U.S. Despite living in an era of the most advanced communication technology, 1 in 3 adults report chronic isolation exacting a very heavy toll on both physical and mental health. Its effects are similar to those of smoking and obesity, both of which are associated with a long list of diseases including depression, heart disease, stroke and even Alzheimer’s disease. In 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General designated loneliness a public health epidemic and challenged society to do something about it as it did with other public health catastrophes such as tobacco consumption.

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While objective loneliness means no or few social contacts, subjective loneliness is a feeling of emotional isolation. It means being lonely even when there are numerous other people around. According to recent studies, loneliness results in a series of health problems. Cardiovascular disease and depression are at the top of the list. An effective intervention against loneliness may prevent from 15% to 20% of depression cases in elderly people. 

UCLA’s Dr. Indu Subramanian studied loneliness in those with Parkinson’s disease, noting that it has about the same potency in affecting disease severity as 30 minutes of exercise each day. Her research highlights the reality that loneliness is too often overlooked as a health risk but it impacts quality of life. Sadly, loneliness is stigmatized and those suffering. due to shame and embarrassment, rarely seek help.

Loneliness also affects brain health. Many studies indicate that lonely people tend to have smaller volumes of gray matter in brain regions related to emotional regulation, memory and social processing. Shrinkage may result from heightened stress hormone release, leading to cognitive deterioration and emotional issues over time. Interestingly, loneliness also activates those areas of the brain that are typically involved when hunger signals are triggered to maintain food-seeking behaviour.

Some countries have therefore instituted what the British call “social prescribing” – doctors prescribe social activities as a part of treatment. Although promising, experts caution that these solutions must be contextualised, i.e., they must acknowledge differences in mobility, financial disadvantage and health. Healthcare professionals should be trained to recognize loneliness as an important health issue. They should inquire about loneliness and monitor it constantly because it cuts across any age group and not only the elderly.

Addressing loneliness is important not only for the individual’s good but also to lighten the burden on health care systems. By providing supportive social relations, reducing the stigma around it and offering support, society can start rolling back the damaging trends of loneliness and build a healthier, more connected future.