Loneliness: A Serious Threat to Brain Health

I have always liked this ancient Chinese proverb: “Dig a well before you are thirsty.”

It encourages us to take action early and prepare before a need arises, rather than waiting until a situation becomes critical. I often use this proverb in my presentations to illustrate the importance of early planning in life, business, relationships, and personal development.

This proverb is highly relevant when we talk about brain health.

I came across something startling: the latest Cigna Loneliness Index reports that 61% of Americans feel lonely. I believe this figure may be similar in many other countries. This is an alarming statistic.

Are you surprised to learn that loneliness is a threat to brain health?

In the long term, loneliness can cause the hippocampus to shrink and impair cognitive function. It also affects mental health, personal resilience, work productivity, and overall well-being—across all age groups and stages of life. In 2017, the UK government appointed a “Minister for Loneliness” with a budget allocation of £21.8 million. In San Mateo County, California, loneliness was declared a public health emergency in 2024.

Loneliness is not just a feeling. It is a silent epidemic that can lead to various illnesses. Studies have linked loneliness to stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, high blood pressure, heart disease, and depression.

“I think loneliness might be killing more people than cancer.”
— quote from the film A Simple Favor

Julianne Holt-Lunstad, a Professor of Psychology at Brigham Young University, said:

“Many people think social relationships are only related to emotional well-being; they don’t realize the profound impact these relationships have on physical health. We need to take social relationships as seriously as we take nutrition, exercise, and healthy lifestyles.”

Her research shows that loneliness increases the risk of premature death by 26%.

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Social Connection as a Basic Human Need

Humans are social beings—not just because we enjoy socializing, but because we need it. Social interaction is as vital to the brain as oxygen. It helps to:

• Stimulate memory

• Strengthen emotional processing

• Maintain mental flexibility

• Regulate emotions

• Expose us to new ideas

• Help us see patterns and connections

Yet, it is very easy for our social circles to shrink. Dig a well before you are thirsty. Do not let modern lifestyles isolate you from others.

Remember, if you feel lonely, many others feel the same way. What can you do?

• Make a phone or video call

• Chat with your neighbors

• Join a club or community

• Join a sports team

• Spend time with family

• Reconnect with old friends

If you are standing in line, instead of looking at your phone, try asking the person next to you about their favorite item in their basket, or where they bought that interesting piece of jewelry… the opportunities for connection are endless.

I don’t know many things for certain. But I do know this: if you do it, two people will have a better day.

And if you are among the 39% who are not lonely, this is your opportunity to make the world a better place.

“Ah, look at all the lonely people.” — The Beatles

Mindful awareness is the key.

 

Reference Source : Leaderonomics.com

Date of Input: 26/01/2026 | Updated: 26/01/2026 | syafiqahfirdaus