How Loneliness Predicts Depression and Impacts Your Health: Insights from Physician’s Weekly

Loneliness and Its Impact on Health: A Growing Concern

A recent study highlights a troubling link between loneliness and health issues. Published on July 9, 2025, in PLOS ONE, this research shows how feeling lonely can lead to depression and other health problems.

Dr. Oluwasegun Akinyemi and his team at Howard University analyzed data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, involving over 47,000 people from 2016 to 2023. They found that more than 80% of participants experienced some level of loneliness. Those who reported being “always” lonely had a strikingly higher chance of being diagnosed with depression—50.2% compared to just 9.7% for those who never felt lonely.

In addition to emotional struggles, lonely individuals faced more health challenges. They reported 10.9 more poor mental health days and 5.0 more poor physical health days each month than those who felt socially fulfilled. The study revealed important differences as well. For instance, women generally reported more poor mental health days than men. Interestingly, Black individuals who felt lonely showed lower depression rates and fewer poor mental health days compared to their White counterparts. Also, seniors over 64 averaged more poor physical health days than younger adults.

These findings suggest that loneliness is not just a personal issue but a public health concern. According to Akinyemi, addressing loneliness could significantly improve overall health outcomes.

This research aligns with other studies that emphasize the deep connections between social well-being and health. For instance, a recent survey revealed that approximately 61% of adults in the U.S. report feeling lonely sometimes or often. Experts argue that recognizing and treating loneliness is crucial for better mental and physical health in communities.

In a world where social media can ironically increase feelings of isolation, this study serves as an important reminder. Taking steps to connect with others, even in small ways, can lead to profound health benefits.

To read more about the study and its findings, check out the full article here.

Loneliness is a pressing issue we can’t ignore. It’s time to talk about it openly and seek connections that foster better health.

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