Research done at the University of Chicago indicates that loneliness negatively impacts health by altering cardiac function and disturbing sleep. Lonely people may have more health problems because they view the world as threatening and their isolation from others reduces opportunities for positive feedback and emotional support. The impact on health of loneliness may be comparable to the impact of obesity, sedentary lifestyle and possibly even smoking according to researchers. These findings are significant because of social changes occurring in the United States. US Census Bureau projections show that by the year 2010, 31 million Americans will be living alone, an increase of 40% over 1980. Being alone, however, is not the only cause of loneliness. Loneliness is characterized by three conditions: isolation, feelings of being disconnected, and feelings of not belonging. Isolation can be caused by separation by distance from a partner or loved ones. Feelings of being disconnected can by caused by not having close friends. Feelings of not belonging can be caused by not identifying with or being accepted by valued social groups.

Other research has suggested that chronic loneliness may be associated with increased risk of cancer, stroke and cardiovascular disease. In 2005 the Framingham Heart Study reported that lonely men have increased levels of IL-6, a blood chemical associated with heart disease. This year the University of Chicago reported that loneliness can add up to 30 points to blood pressure in people over 50 years old. Loneliness is also linked with depression, which is a risk factor for suicide. Loneliness can contribute to alcoholism. Loneliness in children is directly linked to antisocial and self-destructive behavior. Loneliness can have a negative impact on learning and memory. Sleep disturbances associated with loneliness can have negative impacts on daily living.

It has been said that loneliness is the only disease that can be cured by adding two or more cases together. Feeling lonely is a common human emotion felt by everyone at times. However, feelings of loneliness often feed on themselves creating a cycle of loneliness that may result in chronic loneliness. Changing any pattern of behavior requires effort and commitment. If you experience prolonged periods of loneliness you may want to ask yourself: What is the cause of my loneliness? How do I cope with my feelings of loneliness? (For example drinking alcohol, withdrawing more, or sleeping more.) Do I feel relaxed when I am alone or is it unpleasant to be alone? Do I prefer to be one-on-one with people or am I more comfortable in a group? Remember that to break any pattern of behavior requires taking some risks. To break loneliness you may need to be willing to talk more, smile more, or make an effort to get involved in something with other people. You have to be willing to seize opportunities to be with other people even if you are not sure you want to.

This holiday season we should all look for signs of loneliness in ourselves and in others. This is an excellent time to include others in activities and to get involved with others. Remember that helping someone overcome loneliness could improve their physical and/or mental health. It could even save someone's life!

References: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loneliness, http://chronicle.uchicago.edu/000817/loneliness.shtml

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