The report by the WHO (World Health Organization) Commission on Social Connection titled “From loneliness to social connection: charting a path to healthier societies”, highlights the impact of social isolation and loneliness on global health, particularly among young people and low-income populations.

Key Highlights from the Report

Widespread Social Disconnection

• 1 in 6 people globally felt lonely between 2014 and 2023.
• Young people (13–29) had the highest loneliness rates globally (17–21%); highest among teenagers.
• Social isolation affected:
  • Up to 1 in 3 older adults (1990–2022)
  • Around 1 in 4 teenagers (2003–2018)
• Disparities:
  • Low-income countries: ~24% felt lonely
  • High-income countries: ~11% felt lonely
  • Vulnerable groups: people with disabilities, refugees, migrants, LGBTIQ+ individuals, Indigenous and ethnic minority communities

Impacts of Social Disconnection

• Physical Health: Linked to ~871,000 global deaths per year (2014–2019); increased risks of heart disease, stroke
• Mental Health: Depression, anxiety, dementia
• Socioeconomic Outcomes: Lower school/work performance, weakened societal cohesion

Drivers of Loneliness and Isolation

• Individual factors: Health issues, personality traits, life transitions (e.g., bereavement, job loss).
• Social determinants: Low income, poor education, neighbourhood characteristics.
• Digital technology: Though it connects, it can also amplify disconnection, especially in youth.

Roadmap for Improving Social Connection

• Policy: Eight countries (including Denmark, Finland, Germany, Japan, Netherlands, Sweden, UK, and USA) have adopted national policies on social connection.
• • These include awareness campaigns, stigma reduction, involvement of affected individuals in policy design, and research funding.
• Research: Need for more data from low- and middle-income countries.
  • WHO recommends development of a global Social Connection Index.
• Interventions: 
  • Evidence-backed psychological therapies like CBT, mindfulness, and social skills training.
  • Social infrastructure: Inclusive public spaces, local services like sports clubs or community gardening to encourage interaction
• Public Engagement: Advocacy campaigns, group-based activities, and social prescribing (e.g., doctors suggesting participation in community events)

DOWNLOAD PDF