WHO Warns 1 in 6 Globally Affected by Loneliness, Calls for Urgent Action

In a groundbreaking report released this week, the World Health Organization (WHO) Commission on Social Connection revealed that 1 in 6 people worldwide suffers from loneliness, a silent epidemic that carries severe health, economic, and societal consequences. With loneliness linked to more than 871,000 deaths annually—or approximately 100 every hour—WHO is urging governments, communities, and individuals to treat social connection as a public health priority.

The report lays out a global roadmap to tackle this widespread issue, emphasizing that strengthening human connections is not only essential to well-being and longevity but also crucial for the resilience and prosperity of communities and economies.

Understanding Loneliness and Social Isolation

WHO distinguishes between loneliness and social isolation:

• Loneliness is the subjective feeling of a gap between desired and actual social relationships.

• Social isolation refers to an objective lack of contact with others.

“In this report, we pull back the curtain on loneliness and isolation as a defining challenge of our time,” said Dr Vivek Murthy, Co-chair of the WHO Commission and former U.S. Surgeon General. “We lay out a roadmap to build more connected lives and improve health, education, and economic outcomes.”

“In an age where connection is technologically easier than ever, too many people remain disconnected emotionally and socially,” added Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General.

Who Is Most Affected?

The data shows loneliness is not limited to age or geography—it affects diverse populations globally, with youth and individuals in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) disproportionately affected:

• 17–21% of people aged 13–29 report frequent loneliness.

• The highest loneliness rates are among teenagers.

• 24% in low-income countries report being lonely—more than double the rate in high-income nations (11%).

Social isolation, although less measured, is estimated to impact:

• Up to 1 in 3 older adults.

• 1 in 4 adolescents.

Vulnerable groups—including people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ individuals, migrants, refugees, Indigenous populations, and ethnic minorities—face additional barriers such as discrimination and marginalization, making meaningful connection even harder.

Causes and Modern Challenges

The causes of loneliness and isolation are multi-faceted, ranging from:

• Health issues and disabilities

• Low income and education levels

• Living alone

• Inadequate infrastructure and public policies

• Overdependence on digital technologies

While digital tools can enhance communication, the report warns about the negative mental health effects of excessive screen time, social media toxicity, and superficial online interactions, especially among the youth.

“As technology reshapes our lives, we must ensure it strengthens—not weakens—human connection,” said Chido Mpemba, Co-chair of the WHO Commission and Youth Advisor to the African Union Chairperson.

Health and Societal Impacts: A Global Toll

Social connection is a powerful health protector, reducing inflammation, enhancing immunity, and lowering the risk of:

• Heart disease

• Stroke

• Diabetes

• Cognitive decline

• Premature death

Mental health suffers as well:

• People who are lonely are twice as likely to suffer from depression.

• Loneliness contributes to anxiety, self-harm, and suicidal ideation.

The implications go beyond health:

• Teenagers facing loneliness are 22% more likely to perform poorly in school.

• Adults may experience reduced job prospects, lower earnings, and difficulty staying employed.

• At a national level, loneliness undermines social cohesion, productivity, and economic performance, placing a heavy burden on healthcare and social systems.

A Global Roadmap for Action

The WHO Commission on Social Connection calls for coordinated, multi-level action across five priority areas:

1. Policy – Integration of social connection in public health, urban planning, and digital governance.

2. Research – Investment in data and evidence to guide interventions.

3. Interventions – Scalable programs to support social engagement at all ages.

4. Measurement – Development of a Global Social Connection Index to track progress.

5. Public Engagement – Campaigns to reduce stigma, shift norms, and inspire grassroots action.

Examples of proven interventions include:

• Community-based programs such as group walking clubs, language classes, and intergenerational activities.

• Social infrastructure like parks, libraries, community centers, and inclusive urban spaces.

• Digital tools that foster authentic engagement rather than isolation.

Everyone Has a Role

While governments and organizations must take systemic action, each individual can contribute to fostering connection:

• Reach out to a friend, neighbor, or coworker.

• Join local groups or volunteer organizations.

• Put away your phone during conversations.

• Encourage inclusive spaces and conversations—at home, in schools, and at work.

• Support services for those struggling with mental health or isolation.

A Call to Action

“If we fail to address social disconnection, we risk entrenching a crisis that weakens our societies,” said Dr Murthy. “But if we act with urgency and compassion, we can build a world where no one feels alone.”

The WHO is urging Member States, civil society, business leaders, and everyday citizens to make social connection a global health priority. The report affirms that the costs of loneliness are profound, but the benefits of connection are transformative.

The WHO’s landmark report sends an urgent message: social connection is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. From mental and physical health to economic stability and global development, fostering meaningful human bonds is essential to a healthier, happier world.