MONTHLY BAROMETER – WELLNESS EDITION
The new sharing economy is ingrained in our “always-on,” hyper-connected societies. It is therefore a sad irony that Western societies are now victims of an epidemic of loneliness, which is increasingly viewed as a significant public health issue that deserves attention and public funds.
In the UK, for example, private initiatives such as The Campaign to End Loneliness join together local governments and the National Health Service to combat the devastating impact that loneliness has on health.
According to a recent meta-analysis, loneliness is such a strong predictor of early death that it even eclipses obesity (as a predictor). Medical research shows that a condition of chronic loneliness is associated with increased levels of cortisol (the “stress” hormone), as well as higher vascular resistance that can raise blood pressure and decrease blood flow to vital organs.
How ironic that loneliness is a major factor to our heath crisis with such an abundance of people and communication devices. It evidences the complex nature of humans and our basic need for companionship. Matching the abundance of discarded pets with those needing companionship would reduce two escalating community issues.
Mr. Malleret, totally agree with you. Solitude, as the plague of the twenty-first century. If do not take effective measures, in 20-30 years it will be too late.
Michael Kochiashvili doctor, Wellness practitioner, Moscow