Have We Already Found The Cure for Loneliness?

Greeting Stewards, 

As you know, our PAHS forums and the intimate community that emerges from them can be a powerful antidote for loneliness. You may also be aware that back in June, the United States had announced a new Surgeon General Advisory that declared an epidemic on loneliness and social isolation. The general consensus of that report explained how loneliness and isolation was already present before COVID-19 and the global pandemic. Additionally, the report goes into detail how the United States will tackle and address this epidemic through their six pillars that will advance social connection to combat loneliness.  

However, a new opinion article from the New York Times says that we already know the cure for loneliness, and asks why, then, we continue to suffer. Nicholas Kristof, the author of the article, discusses how countries like Japan, Britain, and Sweden have ministers for loneliness, a strategy that has been successful for these countries (with others following along). 

Since 2018 the British government  has authorized about $100 million towards local efforts to combat loneliness. These efforts are based on community building and bringing people together for events and programs called the “Great Get-Together.” According to the article, “programs ranged from poetry workshops to book discussions and litter pickups, followed by a free drink at the pub.”

Britain has also been launching initiatives to address loneliness with spaces that allow for social connection. Some of these spaces range from parks, libraries, “chatty benches,” and “talking cafes.” These spaces encourage people to talk to each other (as humans evolved to do!). These little steps will not only combat loneliness but also  soften the stigma around being lonely and lessen the embarrassment of not wanting to admit that one is lonely. 

With other countries leading the way with loneliness initiatives, is it our turn? Kristof ends the article with, “So, President Biden, how about creating a senior government post analogous to a minister for loneliness? And mayors and governors, how about some chatty benches in American parks, along with volunteers deputized to bring us out for nature walks and singalongs? We Americans, atomized and polarized, addicted and distressed, are a lonely crowd. Overwhelming evidence suggests that for the sake of our happiness and well-being, we need one another.” 

What are your thoughts on these little steps towards being less lonely? Let us know in Circle! 

Lastly, we have only one forum left this year! We are happy to say that Jeannine will be back to facilitate this final one! Sign up while you still can, and we hope to see you in November! 

Warmly, 

Asheanna