BLUF
Historically, humans have needed to rely on others for survival. When we lose that connection, it can have an effect not only on our mental health, but also our physical health.Summary
KEY POINTS:
- A meta-analysis of 70 studies found that people who were socially isolated or lonely were much more likely to die prematurely.
- One study equated this increased risk in early mortality to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
- Social isolation and loneliness are also associated with the onset of chronic conditions like heart disease.
