The study was published in Perspectives on Psychological Science. People without social connectivity have an even greater mortality rate of 29 to 32 percent.
In the study, it was found that people who are alone but say they are happy still have an increased mortality rate. People who are isolated and who also feel lonely are at the highest risk level. Some people actually have many social contacts but still felt lonely.
Technology has brought about the increased feeling of loneliness for many people. Relationships are much shallower today and they often involve very little personal interaction.
The results are that loneliness can be as devastating to one's health as obesity, being an alcoholic, or smoking 15 cigarettes a day. The findings from the study also indicate that people need to develop strong relationships and then the health benefits will follow. Health benefits may include better ability to cope with stress, stronger immune systems, adding significant meaning to one's life, and more.
Comment: One of the best ways to cure loneliness is to first know the Creator Who is Christ. He is the One Who designed us and He has made us to fellowship with Him. When we come to Him for salvation, He moves in to our hearts and gladly fellowships with His children.
For those who really know Him, they will testify that He satisfies. Because of this, the believer can never honestly say that they are alone.
Still, God has also made us to be social creatures. We truly do need each other and the companionship of someone special in our lives. God has told us that "It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him" (Genesis 2:18).
Believers have known all along that people need others in their daily lives who care for them, and vice versa. This is true because our Creator told us about it. We are all in need of His infinite love, and He can then help us to love others.
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Source: http://time.com/3747784/loneliness-mortality/
Source: http://www.hngn.com/articles/78718/20150319/loneliness-could-be-just-as-harmful-as-obesity-smoking-15-cigarettes-a-day.htm
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Graphics: Mine
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Keywords: loneliness, lonely, Brigham University, study, Genesis 2 18, cure, Creator, relationships