Many people prefer it, but it costs millions

A new analysis from the UK has revealed that loneliness takes a heavy toll not only emotionally but also financially. According to the research, lonely individuals cost the healthcare system an additional 1,024 euros (approximately £50,000) per year, on average.

Experts emphasize that this finding shows that loneliness is not an individual problem but has become a major issue affecting public health and the public budget.

WHO CONSIDERING LONELINESS AS A GLOBAL HEALTH THREAT

The study, published in the journal PLOS One, surveyed more than 23,000 people on loneliness, well-being, and healthcare use between 2021 and 2023. Eight percent of participants reported experiencing loneliness frequently, while 32 percent reported experiencing loneliness occasionally.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), social isolation and loneliness are directly linked to a higher risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, depression, and anxiety. The WHO describes this as a “serious threat to global health.”

IT AFFECTS NOT ONLY EMOTIONAL HEALTH BUT ALSO PHYSICAL HEALTH

The research found that lonely people have poorer physical and mental health and visit GPs or hospitals more frequently, placing additional burden on the healthcare system.

"Loneliness is an often overlooked condition that carries huge personal and societal costs. Our findings highlight the importance of addressing loneliness as both a public health issue and a priority for the NHS," said Antonieta Medina-Lara, professor of public health economics at the University of Exeter.

The fight against national plans has begun

Many countries are developing national strategies to promote in-person and online connections to combat loneliness and social isolation, particularly among older adults.

The research also revealed differences between age groups. While both young and old single individuals have significantly higher costs to the healthcare system, this difference is less pronounced in middle-aged individuals.

CALL FOR AWARENESS

"Making complex social problems like loneliness visible can help develop new solutions. Our goal is to connect individuals, improve well-being, and ultimately reduce the burden on healthcare services," Medina-Lara said.