Loneliness could be the cause of your illnesses

Research states loneliness, social isolation linked to 5 proteins in brain that are implicated in inflammation as well as antiviral and immune responses

Human beings are inherently social. We thrive on connection, communication and shared experiences, which help shape our identities and foster a sense of belonging. Yet, in an increasingly digital and fast-paced world, feelings of loneliness and social isolation have become alarmingly common.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that these feelings are widespread. About 25% of older people experience social isolation and 5%-15% of adolescents feel lonely.

These figures are important since published studies have demonstrated that social isolation and loneliness are linked to increased risk of disease and death. A study by the University of Cambridge, published in 2022, found that social isolation in older people carried a 26% increased risk of developing dementia. The researchers, who also found that loneliness was associated with depression, followed up the previous study by understanding the underlying biological processes behind this link between social isolation and loneliness and health to answer the question-why is loneliness so bad for our bodies and minds?

Exploring proteins