Feeling Lonely Does NOT Mean that You are Weird

Today I’m recommending:

A Slight Change of Plans:  #44  The Science of Loneliness

Link (Grey)

In this episode, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy talks about the prevalence of loneliness and the physical and emotional health risks associated with it.   He considers loneliness to be a public health risk and notes that the mortality rates associated with loneliness are equal to someone smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

You will learn:

• How the feeling of loneliness is our body’s signal that we need to connect more with people
• What prevents us from seeking more connection with others when we really need it
• What exactly is loneliness and how it is different from isolation and solitude
• Concrete ideas and ways to create more meaningful social connections that would prevent loneliness

I got a lot of great ideas from this podcast and will honor the feeling of loneliness that I feel by trying to create opportunities to connect more with others.

The Episode is good for: Anyone who notices the feeling of loneliness.

Trigger warnings:  None (if you hear one that I missed, please email me)

Length: 33 min

I’d love to share your feedback on this podcast!!  Please email me your comments and I will post them.  Please put the podcast title in the subject line.  Here are 2 questions that I’d love to have your feedback on:

• What has prevented you from reaching out to people when you feel lonely?
• What do you do that helps you feel less lonely?