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Loneliness is an unpleasant emotional response to perceived or actual social isolation. Loneliness has been described as social pain, a psychological mechanism that motivates individuals to seek social connections.
The causes of loneliness are varied. Loneliness can be a result of systemic issues, genetic inheritance, cultural factors, a lack of meaningful relationships, a significant loss, an excessive reliance on passive technologies (particularly the Internet in the 21st century), and a self-perpetuating mindset. Research has demonstrated that loneliness is ubiquitous in society, including among people in marriages along with other strong relationships and those with successful careers.
Most people suffer temporary loneliness at some points in their lives, with about one in six of the world's population experiencing significant long-term loneliness. Adolescents tend to experience the highest levels of loneliness; in later years it tends to decrease. This is in contrast with social isolation, which tends to increase with age, but on average older people grow less bothered by it at an even faster rate.
Transient or short-term loneliness is generally seen as a positive, adaptive response. While unpleasant, it motivates individuals to seek social connection, similar to how short-term hunger motivates one to eat. Chronic or long-term loneliness on the other hand, is generally correlated with negative effects. These include increased obesity, substance use disorder, risk of depression, cardiovascular disease, risk of high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
Medical treatments for loneliness include beginning therapy and taking antidepressants. Social treatments for loneliness generally include an increase in interaction with others, such as group activities (such as exercise or religious activities), re-engaging with old friends or colleagues, owning pets, and becoming more connected with one's community.
Loneliness has long been a theme in literature, going back to the Epic of Gilgamesh. However, academic coverage of loneliness was sparse until recent decades. In the 21st century, some academics and professionals have claimed that loneliness has become an epidemic, including Vivek Murthy, a former Surgeon General of the United States.
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