Loneliness and Health

If you need a reason to cry on a Monday morning at the office…read this from the WSJ.  If that level of emotional expression doesn’t work in your office then don’t click the link but do read this short excerpt and my own words.

From the WSJ article….Baby boomers said they lack companionship and felt isolated with greater frequency than any other generation, including the older “silent generation.”

The article gives several personal stories and from my time as a Meals on Wheels Volunteer I can attest to some of my deliveries being more than just a food drop.  The clients were craving social connection.

“Ms. Schneider keeps the television on from the time she wakes up until she falls asleep “just to have music and the noise. Because then you don’t feel lonely.”

Connections are incredibly important to happiness and as the researchers show – incredibly important to your health.

“Researchers have found that loneliness takes a physical toll, and is as closely linked to early mortality as smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day or consuming more than six alcoholic drinks a day. Loneliness is even worse for longevity than being obese or physically inactive.”

Take the time to attend groups and build your inner-circle in your community.  Don’t feel like it?  Do it anyway! Your brain will love it and rewards you with oxytocin by being in groups. Small steps. Little neurochemical boosts. Stay with your new habit and reap the benefits long term.  Did you laugh at the Minions meme?  That’s good for you too! Laugh more, connect more!

Anthony Poponi is a comic, improv artist, brain chemistry nerd and community-minded advocate and owner of Humore.us. He’s brings his love of connection and laughter to audiences as keynote, emcee, workshop host or moderator and his mission is to increase laughter and connectivity to combat the human health crises of isolation and disconnection.

Ready to jump-start your group’s happiness? Bring me in to your group to talk about the many facets of happiness as keynote or workshop host.