Written by Anuradha Varanasi | Published : June 6, 2016 2:10 PM IST
Many people tend to suffer from feelings of loneliness and isolation in silence without realising that it can have serious consequences on their health in the long run. Various studies have found that constantly feeling lonely can put you at grave risk from suffering from these five health complications.
Studies have found that feeling socially isolated especially during old age, can put you at the increased risk of dementia [1]. The risk of Alzheimer's disease is more than double in lonely people as compared to those who are not lonely. Researchers say that loneliness is linked to a decline in one's cognitive functioning.
Feeling lonely and socially isolated can increase your risk of suffering from coronary heart disease and stroke by 29% and 32% respectively [2]. Those who have poor social relationships because of which they feel lonely are the ones more prone to these cardiovascular diseases.
Lonely people suffer from episodes of depression and complain of pain and helplessness [3]. In fact, psychiatrists say that feelings of loneliness and depression are very similar to each other. Struggling with feelings of loneliness and isolation can make one more vulnerable to suicidal thoughts. in fact, depression is the leading cause of suicide.
Studies have also found that loneliness can make one more prone to substance abuse and more particularly, alcoholism [3]. Researchers say lonely people are prone to heavy drinking and are more vulnerable to alcohol related health problems due to lack of a support system.
Loneliness is a major cause of chronic stress which is linked to a poor immunity system in the long run [3]. Studies have found that being lonely increases one's mortality risk and reduces the individual's life expectancy as it is also associated with poor sleep quality.
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