The Surgeon General of the United States, Dr. Vivek Murthy, has released a new advisory that highlights the public health crisis of loneliness, isolation, and lack of connection in the United States 1. The advisory calls for action to address this issue and lays out a framework for a National Strategy to Advance Social Connection 1. Even before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, approximately half of U.S. adults reported experiencing measurable levels of loneliness 1. Disconnection fundamentally affects our mental, physical, and societal health. In fact, loneliness and isolation increase the risk for individuals to develop mental health challenges in their lives, and lacking connection can increase the risk for premature death to levels comparable to smoking daily 1. The physical health consequences of poor or insufficient connection include a 29% increased risk of heart disease, a 32% increased risk of stroke, and a 50% increased risk of developing dementia for older adults 1. Additionally, lacking social connection increases risk of premature death by more than 60% 1.
Vivek H. Murthy, M.D., M.B.A.
If you are feeling lonely or isolated, there are several things you can do to improve your social connections. Here are some recommendations from the Surgeon General’s advisory:
Prioritize relationships: Make time for meaningful interactions with family members, friends, and colleagues.
Focus on quality: Focus on building deep relationships with people who share your values and interests.
Be present: When you are spending time with others, be fully present and engaged in the moment.
Use technology wisely: Use technology to connect with others when it is not possible to meet in person.
Engage in activities that bring you joy: Participate in activities that bring you joy and allow you to connect with others who share your interests.
Remember that social connection is essential for our well-being. By taking steps to build and maintain meaningful relationships with others, we can improve our mental and physical health and create a more connected society.
19th and 21st Surgeon General of the United States
Vice Admiral, United States Public Health Service
The entire article from our Surgeon General can be found at Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation (hhs.gov). In this article, he includes faith organizations in his call out for help to our nation. That’s a call out to you and me.
It will take all of us being willing to be inconvenienced, intentional, and inclusive. Reaching out will take planning ahead, incorporating new rhythms in our daily routines and commitment to a relational way of living. Those of us that are up for the challenge need to “step up” and “stand in the gap” for those that isolated and take the initiative to begin a bridge to needed socialization.
In the Bible we are told not to forsake the assembling of ourselves as we see the Day approaching. This isn’t only to say, “Make sure you’re in church on Sunday.” As we draw closer to the coming of Jesus, we don’t want to be a church of isolation; a church that only functions inside of a building on Sunday mornings. If we do, we will fail at the great commission to go and make disciples.
The church needs to be strong more than ever and reach out. It’s easier than it seems. It doesn’t matter if it’s “not our gift” or “not our strength”, or if we are an “introvert”. All of us can find ways to engage with others.
If you need help in engaging with others, MY FRIEND’S HOUSE is here to help. There are engagement opportunities and simply rhythms to incorporate in our daily lives that provide ways to engage. If you would like prayer or have questions concerning engaging others, please reach out to us at myfriendshouse686@gmail.com.
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