Loneliness has been spreading in the world under the impact of globalised economic system. WHO has declared ‘loneliness’ a global health threat and concern. Social isolation and loneliness are widespread, with an estimated 1 in 4 older people experiencing social isolation and between 5 and 15 per cent of adolescents experiencing loneliness *.
In my practice when addressing adolescent’s developmental issues, I have asked them about their primary concern during the pandemic. Interestingly, their answer was not geopolitical trauma or disease anxiety, but 'loneliness'. It appears that 'loneliness' is a notable psycho-neurological factor affecting their mental health.
Young people experiencing loneliness at school are more likely to drop out their schools. Feeling disconnected can lead to overwhelming anxiety and depression.
Adolescents today are experiencing an era of hyperconnectivity through their virtual devices. Despite this, many are suffering from varying degrees of loneliness. I would appreciate your insights on this matter.
Thanks
Regards
Gonca Yilmaz MD, PhD.
*: https://www.who.int/teams/social-determinants-of-health/demographic-chan...
CHIFA profile: Gonca Yilmaz is a member of the Executive Committee of the International Society for Social Paediatrics and Child Health. She is a social pediatrician in a training hospital in Ankara, Turkey, and has a postgraduate degree in Social Pediatrics. Her interests include child rights, child abuse and neglect management, well-child and baby care, and infant nutrition. goncay AT gmail.com