ORLANDO, Fla. (Ivanhoe Newswire) – The number of Americans living alone has more than doubled since 1960. And now research shows, living by yourself may negatively affect your health.
Many Americans are living alone and isolated. Doctor Richard Schwartz, MD, Psychiatrist believes … “Being separated from other people is an unnatural state for human beings.”
Data from the US Census Bureau shows about 30 percent of households in the U.S. are occupied by just one person.
“More and more Americans are more and more socially isolated and more likely to describe feelings of loneliness.” explains Doctor Schwartz.
A new study published in the Journal Cancer found that adults who live alone have a 32 percent higher risk of dying from cancer. Social isolation and loneliness have also been linked to other health conditions, like heart disease and dementia. And some research has suggested living alone increases the risk of death from any cause.
Doctor Schwartz says, “The effect of social isolation and loneliness on our health is as powerful as things like smoking, high blood pressure, obesity.”
But if you do live alone, Doctor Schwartz says you don’t have to be lonely. Make it a point to connect with others as much as possible. One study found regular 10-minute phone calls can help ease loneliness.
“We are healthier, we are happier, we are less stressed when we maintain our connections to other people.” Explains Doctor Schwartz.
You may also want to try volunteering, joining a support group, or taking up a new hobby. Pets can also keep you company – and studies show owning one can improve both physical and mental wellness. Also, try keeping a gratitude journal. One study found daily gratitude writing lessened loneliness and improved health among older adults. With ways to combat loneliness and improve your health.
Participants in the cancer study who lived alone were also more likely to have a fair or poor health status, obesity, and serious psychological distress. They were also more apt to smoke and drink.
Contributors to this news report include: Julie Marks, Producer; Roque Correa, Editor.
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