While feeling lonely every once in a while is something that many of us face, chronic loneliness is something that can lead to major problems in the future.
Research has shown that those that are faced with loneliness on a large scale may suffer from dementia, high blood pressure, and early mortality, and studies say that chronic loneliness is more life threatening than obesity or smoking. Michael Schoenhofer with the Mental Health Recovery Services Board says that there are a few ways to help fight back against extreme feelings of being lonely.
"Number one is recognize that being lonely or lack of connections with other people really is bad, and can put you at risk," said Schoenhofer, who is the executive director for the Mental Health Recovery Services Board." "The second thing is you should reach out to somebody who is on their own, reach out to them, make time to get involved with other people."
Schoenhofer also recommends joining a group through your church or community to help you stay connected with other people.
