Loneliness isn&rsquo;t just a bad feeling, it&rsquo;s a major health concern.

Why? Because about <a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-social-connection-advisory.pdf" target="_blank">half</a> of U.S. adults are lonely and it can have serious impacts on our physical and mental health, often leading to:
<ul>
 <li>
 Greater risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, dementia, diabetes, and other chronic conditions.</li>
 <li>
 Higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation.</li>
 <li>
 Lower performance and productivity at school and work.</li>
</ul>
<h4>
The power of connection</h4>

There are steps you can take right now if you feel like you don&rsquo;t have meaningful relationships or a sense of belonging. Connection is so important for our overall health!

<ul>
 <li>Start a conversation and keep in regular contact: Reach out to your loved ones, meet up with a friend, or chat with your neighbor. Even a quick touch base can make a difference. Learn more on the Arizona Department of Health&rsquo;s &lsquo;Start a Conversation&rsquo; page:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.azdhs.gov/prevention/chronic-disease/social-connectedness/index.php">ADHS - Social Connectedness - Home (azdhs.gov)</a></li>
 <li>
 Get involved in your community: Join a group, sign up to <a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.volunteermatch.org/" target="_blank">volunteer</a>, participate in a class, or attend an event!</li>
 <li>
 Unplug from technology: Ironically, the phones and computers that can connect us also make people feel lonelier. In-person interactions can make us feel closer.</li>
 <li>
 Ask for help: Talk to a healthcare provider about how you&rsquo;re feeling. If you need immediate help: Call, text, or chat <a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://988lifeline.org/" target="_blank">988 </a>to connect with a trained crisis counselor.</li>
</ul>
Staying connected doesn&rsquo;t have to be complicated&mdash;small moments of kindness, conversation, and community can make a meaningful difference in your well‑being. Whether you reach out to someone you care about or take a step toward building new connections, every effort helps create a healthier, more supported life for yourself and those around you.
&nbsp;

Experiencing Loneliness? Steps to Feel Better

Lonely young latina woman sitting on bed. Depressed hispanic girl at home, looking away with sad expression.

original

webImage

thumbnail

mini

AdobeStock_209268783_Woman Sad

Blog

AZBlue

White

Search

Left