Humans are social creatures but yet social isolation has been found to be steadily increasing. According to a 2018 national survey by Cigna, loneliness levels have reached an all-time high, with nearly half of 20,000 U.S. adults reporting they sometimes or always feel alone. Forty percent of survey participants also reported they sometimes or always feel that their relationships are not meaningful and that they feel isolated. 

How can this be when there are phones in nearly every pocket, connecting us to all corners of the internet, allowing us to communicate to anyone, anywhere, at any time? The answer is complex, many different factors can lead to loneliness. According to a study done by Harvard these were the leading factors:

• Technology — 73% of those surveyed selected technology as contributing to loneliness in the country
• Insufficient time with family — 66% chose this issue as a reason for loneliness in America
• Overworked or too busy or tired —  62% surveyed picked this concern
• Mental health challenges that harm relationships with others —  60% of people rated this as a significant problem
• Living in a society that is too individualistic —  58% named this as a cause of America’s loneliness problem

Why is this an issue:

Being socially isolated poses serious health risks, comparable to smoking, high blood pressure, and obesity. Evidence linking perceived social isolation with adverse health consequences include: depression, poor sleep quality, impaired executive function, accelerated cognitive decline, poor cardiovascular function and impaired immunity. Lacking encouragement from family or friends, those who are lonely may slide into unhealthy habits. In addition, loneliness has been found to raise levels of stress, impede sleep and, in turn, harm the body. Loneliness can also augment depression or anxiety.

How can we combat this?

Social wellness involves nurturing relationships and self-care. It includes both giving and receiving support and varies by individual. 

To build social wellness, consider:

Connecting through volunteering, hobbies, or joining clubs. Check local boards online to find interests in your community. Facebook, Reddit, Nextdoor are all great ways to find local events and get togethers for things you may be interested in, which can help you find like-minded individuals. 

Exercising socially: Join a nearby gym, exercise class, running group, biking group, hiking group, birdwatching group! Exercising socially fosters a connection with others, it also will help you maintain a good schedule with your physical health. 

Many people in their life have someone they are taking care of, such as a child, their parents, a friend or family member, or someone in their community. While caregiving is a rewarding experience it can be socially draining. Balancing your personal time with caregiving can greatly benefit not just your mental health but also your social health

Here are some ways to take care of yourself:

• A quick 5–10 minute breath break or mini walk can reset your energy,
• Block “you-time” on your calendar, say no to extras, and lean on your team colleagues or support groups for backup.
• Small, smart self-care steps help you stay focused, balanced, and ready to lead with resilience
• Stepping away from caregiving for a coffee chat, family dinner, or weekend walk isn’t indulgent—it’s vital. Quality time with loved ones strengthens emotional resilience, supports heart health, and helps caregivers stay energized and clear-headed. Studies show social connection buffers stress and boosts both mental and physical well‑being

The foundation of social wellness is staying connected and engaged in meaningful ways with others and yourself.

Sources:

https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2009-06704-012

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0033350617302731

https://www.apa.org/education-career/ce/social-isolation.pdf