Abstract
Loneliness was a major concern of people during the recent COVID-19 pandemic. Now, that the pandemic is mainly gone, it is still a global issue. This commentary reviews the impact on that loneliness has on our cognitive, behavioral and affective functioning. These effects are described, along with the stigma that often accompanies loneliness and which makes it hard for people to acknowledge and admit that they are lonely, and seek help from healthcare professionals. This commentary, aside from describing the various negative implications of loneliness, highlights the need for society to address the issue. While it cannot be eliminated, the population can be taught how to recognize it, and how to offer assistance to those who struggle with it.
Publisher
Heighten Science Publications Corporation
Reference38 articles.
1. 1. Ornish D. Love and Survival: The scientific basis for the healing power of intimacy. NY: HarperCollins. 1998.
2. 2. Danneel S, Maes M, Vanhalst J, Bijttebier P, Goossens L. Developmental Change in Loneliness and Attitudes Toward Aloneness in Adolescence. J Youth Adolesc. 2018 Jan;47(1):148-161. doi: 10.1007/s10964-017-0685-5. Epub 2017 May 4. PMID: 28474134.
3. 3. Rokach A. Loneliness, alienation, solitude and our lives. In A. Sha'ked & A. Rokach (Eds.), Addressing loneliness: Coping, prevention and clinical interventions. NY: Routledge. 2015; 3-19.
4. 4. McPherson M, Brashears ME, Smith-Lovin L. Social isolation in america: Changes in core discussion networks over two decades. American Sociological Review. 2006; 71(3):353-375. doi:10.1177/000312240607100301
5. 5. Friedman RL. Widening the therapeutic lens: Sense of belonging as an integral dimension of the human experience (Doctoral dissertation). Retrieved from PsychINFO. (Order No. AAI3268822). 2007.