Health. Loneliness, a scourge responsible for more than 871,000 deaths per year worldwide

In a hyperconnected society, where social media is omnipresent, a paradox arises: we have never been so alone. This is essentially the conclusion of the World Health Organization (WHO) report on loneliness and social isolation published on June 30.

A silent killer

The numbers are staggering. Loneliness is estimated to be responsible for approximately 100 deaths per hour worldwide, or more than 871,000 deaths per year. “ In this report, we shed light on the problem of loneliness and isolation, which is a major challenge of our time ,” explains Dr. Vivek Murthy, co-chair of the WHO Commission on Social Connection and a former U.S. public health official.

Contrary to popular belief, loneliness doesn't only affect older people. Young people are particularly vulnerable: 17 to 21% of 13- to 29-year-olds report feeling lonely, with a peak among teenagers.

The geography of loneliness also reveals glaring inequalities. In low-income countries, approximately 24% of the population feels lonely, twice as many as in wealthy countries (11%). This disparity underscores how economic and social hardship amplifies isolation.

Certain groups are also particularly exposed: people with disabilities, refugees, migrants, members of the LGBTQ+ community, etc.

The report highlights a striking paradox of our digital age. " At a time when the possibilities for connection are endless, more and more people are finding themselves isolated and alone ," notes Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the WHO.

Excessive screen time or negative online interactions can harm young people's mental health. Yet, used wisely, these same technologies could strengthen human connections rather than weaken them.

Social connection can have a protective effect on health throughout life. It can mitigate inflammation, reduce the risk of serious health problems, improve mental health, and more.

Conversely, loneliness significantly increases the risk of stroke, heart disease, diabetes, and cognitive decline. Psychologically, lonely people are twice as likely to suffer from depression and are more likely to develop anxiety and suicidal thoughts.

Solutions at your fingertips

Fortunately, solutions exist at all levels. Governments can adapt their public policies, improve social infrastructure, and develop psychological support programs.

But as the WHO points out, everyone can also take action in their daily lives through simple gestures: checking on a friend who is struggling, putting away their phone during a conversation to be fully present, greeting their neighbors, joining a local group or volunteering.