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Can Loneliness Kill You?

Beverley Stewart • November 19, 2023

Can Loneliness Kill You?

Sometimes it might feel like we’re going to die from our loneliness. Research suggests that chronic loneliness and social isolation can have detrimental effects on our health and well-being, potentially increasing the risk of mortality. While loneliness itself may not directly "kill" a person, it can contribute to various physical and mental health issues that, in turn, impact how long we live.



When if feels like you’re dying inside


Loneliness can feel like a slow erosion of our vitality, chipping away at the very core of our being. It's an ache that transcends the emotional and seeps into the physical, making our limbs heavy and our movements sluggish. It whispers lies about our worth, convincing us that our presence is inconsequential, that we are just ghost like figures in a world bustling with connections that we can't seem to grasp. 


Like a darkness that clouds our thoughts, loneliness convinces us that the walls are closing in, and that there's no escape from the suffocating embrace of this isolation. We can feel like we’re being swallowed up and we might die from the nothingness that surrounds us. Our fear and anxiety intensify as we ruminate on where this will all lead to. Will we die from these overwhelming feelings of being unloved, rejected and alone?


The Research


It's important to note that while there is a growing body of research indicating the potential health risks associated with loneliness, individual experiences will vary. Additionally, the mechanisms linking loneliness to mortality are complex, involving a combination of physiological, psychological, and behavioral factors. Here are some findings from recent research on the relationship between loneliness and mortality:

(1) Cardiovascular Health: Loneliness has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Research suggests that socially isolated people may be more prone to conditions like hypertension and heart disease, which can contribute to mortality.



(2) Weakened Immune System: Chronic loneliness may affect our immune system, making us more susceptible to infections and illnesses. A weakened immune system can impact overall health and increase vulnerability to various health issues.



(3) Inflammation: Some studies have suggested that loneliness may contribute to chronic inflammation in the body. Prolonged inflammation is associated with various health problems, including chronic diseases and an increased risk of death.

(4) Mental Health Impact: Loneliness is linked to a range of mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. Mental health issues, when persistent, can contribute to a decline in overall well-being and, in severe cases, may be associated with an increased risk of suicide.


(5) Health Behaviors: Loneliness can influence our health-related behaviors. When we’re lonely, we may be more prone to unhealthy lifestyle choices such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and substance abuse, which can impact health outcomes.



(6) Cognitive Decline: Loneliness has been linked to cognitive decline and an increased risk of conditions like dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Cognitive health is a significant factor in overall well-being and mortality.


In The End


Loneliness won’t directly kill you, but it can feel like it might. It can though greatly affect your mental and physical wellbeing. There is no question that feeling suffocated by loneliness can be a challenging and distressing experience, but there are steps you can take to cope with and alleviate these feelings.


Addressing loneliness and building social connections is considered an important aspect of overall health and well-being. Engaging in social activities, building supportive relationships, and seeking professional help are strategies that can contribute to mitigating the negative effects associated with loneliness.


Remember that overcoming loneliness is a gradual process, and it's okay to take small steps. As Confucius said, “It does not matter how slowly you go, as long as you do not stop.” Start today with a little step, tomorrow another little step. Don’t let loneliness win.



To find out more about Loneliness Counselling click here, or go to Contact Page to make an enquiry. 



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