Loneliness hurts. People often feel isolated or wish they had more friends. Those feelings happen to people of all ages, even if they are busy and spend time around people.

Studies show  relationships are key for overall wellbeing. People thrive in safe social surroundings. Loneliness can take a toll on physical and mental health. It can raise the risk for depression and other mental health issues. It’s also been linked to increased inflammation and higher blood pressure — which can lead to a greater risk for diabetes and heart disease.

All Ages

Young adults may feel alone because of the time they spend on social media. They may think others have more friends or happier lives because of what they see. A study published in JAMA Psychiatry  shows social media can boost their risk for loneliness, depression and suicide.

Loneliness is harmful for the health of older adults,  too. More than one-third of adults age 45 and older are lonely. Many live alone. They may not have the routine social interaction that comes with school or a job. Without these touchstones, the risks for sleeplessness, alcoholism and dementia go up significantly.

Despite its negative side, social media can also help people form bonds. Connecting online through platforms such as Facebook and Instagram let people connect online and share photos with friends and family. Users may even build a new group of friends.

For some, other forms of technology can help. Voice-activated devices and smart speakers allow banter between people and machine, which can make seniors feel more connected. It also offers an easy way to listen to favorite music, learn about daily events and more, says AARP.  

Exercising, eating healthy foods and getting enough sleep can help fight the bad effects of loneliness. They help nurture mental and physical wellbeing — and even longer lives, reports the National Poll on Healthy Aging.  

Other Steps That Help

Luckily, there are things nearly everyone can do to help fight that lonely feeling. Try these tips:

• Spend time outdoors. Get a healthy dose of sunlight and fresh air. Take a walk, soak up some rays for a mood boost.
• Find your tribe. Volunteer for a good cause. Join a hobby, social or service group with people who share your interests.
• Balance your time. Know when to step away from work. Make time each day to relax and do things you enjoy.
• Take care of yourself. Eat health foods, exercise, get plenty of sleep. Nurture your body to fend off stress and depression.
• Connect with others. Reach out to family and friends. Call, email or text if you can’t get together in person.
• Expand your circle. Add a furry friend to your family. Adopt a cat or dog for a healthy dose of unconditional love.
• Meditate every now and Zen. Spend time each day clearing away information overload. Restore peace and calm.

Sources: Loneliness and Social Isolation Linked to Serious Health Conditions, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,  2021; What Doctors Wish Patients Knew About Loneliness and Health,  American Medical Association, 2023; Associations Between Time Spent Using Social Media and Internalizing and Externalizing Problems Among U.S. Youth,  JAMA Psychiatry, 2019; Social Isolation, Loneliness in Older People Pose Health Risks,  National Institute on Aging, 2019; Loneliness and Health: National Poll on Healthy Aging,  Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, 2019

Originally published 3/20/2019; Revised 2022, 2024