From video calls, following friends, swiping right, and DMs, technology has connected us, but at the same time, left us feeling more alone than ever. Studies show around 52 million Americans currently struggle with loneliness.
A poll conducted by the American Psychiatric Association found that 1 in 3 Americans feel lonely every week. One in 10 said they were lonely every day.
But loneliness isn’t just a feeling; it’s a health concern.
“The effect of social isolation and loneliness on our health is as powerful as things like smoking, high blood pressure, obesity,” said psychiatrist Dr. Richard S. Schwartz.
But there are some small ways to fight loneliness.
Instead of making a huge commitment to volunteering, become a micro volunteer. This means you find tiny ways to help, like walking a neighbor’s dog or donating blood.
Also, venture to third places, think beyond school or work. Go to a café or library regularly.
While you’re there, try out some reverse small talk. Instead of asking the normal questions like, “How are you today?” ask something slightly unusual, like, “What’s a skill you’d love to learn?”
And curate your online interactions. Instead of passively scrolling, actively seek out online communities around a specific interest and participate in discussions and offer support.
And create a connection ritual. This is a regular activity specifically aimed at connecting with others. One example is to set a specific time each week to call a different friend.
“Don’t think about it, just do it. You know, call somebody up and invite them to do something with you,” said Rev. Bradford Clark.
Another way to combat loneliness, skill share with your neighbors. Offer to teach a neighbor your mother’s favorite recipe or how to grow an herb garden.
A recent study looked at loneliness around the world. Researchers found that adults in Denmark reported the lowest levels of loneliness, while those in Greece and Cyprus had the highest levels overall.
And the U.S. had a substantially higher prevalence of loneliness among middle-aged adults than every other country in the study except one, the Netherlands.