Social Isolation and Loneliness: Modern Pandemic of a Psychosocial Determinant of Health

Abstract

Social connectedness is a fundamental aspect of human nature. Over the last two decades, there has been a behavioral pandemic of social isolation and loneliness globally. Social isolation and loneliness affect people of all ages and constitute an increasingly important social determinant of mental health (SDoMH). Chronic loneliness and isolation trigger neurobiological mechanisms and behavior alterations that contribute to a cascade of adverse health consequences. Feeling lonely and socially isolated are associated with a higher likelihood of mortality and are more common and more severe in people with serious mental illnesses. The rapid growth of technology and social media, globalization, and societal polarization, are likely to be an underlying threat of rising social isolation and loneliness. However, technology can also be utilized in various ways to address social isolation and loneliness. We discuss strategies and interventions for combating the loneliness pandemic at individual and community levels. [ Psychiatr Ann. 2024;54(7):e196–e201.]