01 Jul TO FIGHT LONELINESS, FIND A SENSE OF PURPOSE
Loneliness is a major cause of mental ill-health.
In fact, some argue that loneliness is, or will soon become, one of the biggest public health issues around the world.
Not surprisingly, loneliness can lead to depression and anxiety, and detract from happiness and life satisfaction.
One can be happy alone, but it’s hard if one feels lonely (there IS. a difference).
But the good news is there’s a relatively simple solution to overcoming loneliness; and if that’s something of interest to you then read on …
via Futurity by Talia Ogliore-Wustle
A sense of purpose in life—whether it’s a high-minded quest to make a difference or a simple hobby with personal meaning—can offer potent protection against loneliness, according to new research.
“Loneliness is known to be one of the biggest psychological predictors for health problems, cognitive decline, and early mortality,” says Patrick Hill, associate professor of psychological and brain sciences at Washington University in St. Louis. “Studies show that it can be as harmful for health as smoking or having a poor diet.”
The new study, based on surveys of more than 2,300 adults in Switzerland, found that feelings of loneliness were less common in people who reported a purposeful life, regardless of their age.
The researchers asked respondents to score their feelings on a lack of companionship, isolation from other people, and a sense of being “left out or passed over” during a four-week period. Participants also filled out the six-item Life Engagement Test, which asked them to rate statements such as “there is not enough purpose in my life” and “I value my activities a lot.”
“A sense of purpose is this general perception that you have something leading and directing you from one day to the next,” Hill says. “It can be something like gardening, supporting your family, or achieving success at work.”
… keep reading the full & original article HERE