Loneliness, the silent killer: 871,000 deaths a year (WHO)

It's undoubtedly one of the great paradoxes of our age: in an age of hyperconnection, where every moment can be shared online, loneliness is nonetheless one of the great sufferings of our time.

Far from being just a passing mood, loneliness is now a major public health issue, the seriousness of which has just been confirmed by a report from the World Health Organisation (WHO): more than 871,000 deaths a year worldwide are thought to be linked to loneliness and social isolation, i.e. almost 100 deaths every hour.

A silent scourge with very real consequences

Loneliness is not just a vague feeling of unpleasant discomfort: it's a risk factor as formidable for health as obesity or smoking. Recent studies show that it significantly increases the risk of stroke, heart disease, diabetes and cognitive decline, as well as depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts. The WHO goes so far as to compare its impact on life expectancy to that of 15 cigarettes smoked a day.

No one is immune

Contrary to popular belief, loneliness does not only affect the elderly. Young people, especially teenage girls, are particularly at risk: nearly a quarter of them say they are isolated, and 17% to 21% of 13-29 year-olds say they suffer from loneliness, with a peak in adolescence. People with disabilities, refugees, migrants and members of LGBTQ+ communities are also more vulnerable.

Geographical inequalities are glaring: in low-income countries, 24% of the population feels lonely, compared with 11% in rich countries. Economic and social difficulties exacerbate isolation: poor health, reduced mobility and inadequate public policies are among the main culprits.

Hyperconnection: remedy or poison?

The WHO report points to a striking paradox: while social networks promise to bring people closer together, they can also increase feelings of isolation, particularly among young people. Excessive exposure to screens or negative virtual interactions can weaken mental health. However, if used properly, these technologies could also become a means of strengthening social ties.

Social ties, a real health 'vaccine'

So what can we do to combat loneliness and isolation? Quality social relationships act as a powerful protective factor throughout life: they improve mental health and promote longevity. Conversely, the absence of social ties weakens the body and the psyche, making everyone more vulnerable to illness and psychological distress.

Practical solutions at every level

In the light of these facts, the WHO is calling for collective action. Governments are invited to make solitude a political priority, to strengthen social infrastructures and to support research into prevention strategies. Some countries, such as Sweden, are already experimenting with ambitious action plans to break the isolation of the most vulnerable.

Everyone can also take action, at their own modest level, to rise to the challenge: checking up on a loved one, getting involved in an association, daring to talk to a professional about their loneliness, or simply focusing on the quality of presence in their daily interactions. Because while loneliness kills, social contact saves lives.

(MH with LM - Sources : OMS, Euronews, Psycholgies, RTBF, BBC - Picture : Unsplash)

Le rapport complet est disponible à l’adresse : https://www.who.int/groups/commission-on-social-connection/report