Isolation, Loneliness In Rural America Must Be Addressed

An estimated one in two American adults reports experiencing significant loneliness. The Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Health Effects of Social Connection and Community says loneliness can often be more pronounced in rural communities since fewer people live further away from each other. Nikki Shaffer, the senior director of occupational health and wellness at Pfizer, says loneliness can have serious effects on health, both mental and physical.

“Nowadays, it’s increasingly easy for many to stay within their own home," Shaffer said. "A lack of social connectivity is associated with an increased risk of anxiety, depression, and dementia. But the impact can also be physical: not getting enough social connection can increase the risk of premature death by as much as smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day or drinking six alcoholic drinks daily. Pfizer is pleased to be partnering with Rural Minds, a nonprofit with the vision of a rural America where there’s no more stigma, silence or suffering around mental health.”

Isolation and loneliness can contribute to rural mental health challenges that include a mindset of self-reliance that can make it difficult to ask for help; stigma around mental illness with the fear of judgment; or difficulty getting an appointment with a limited number of mental health professionals in rural communities. It's important to foster connections, which Shaffer says starts with identifying which connections are the most important to you.

“Find activities and connections that you enjoy. Maybe take a class to learn something new, such as those offered at Grange Halls in rural areas across the U.S.," Shaffer added. "Take the time to reach out to friends and family. Look for opportunities to help others, like volunteering – it can feel good to give back. Consider getting a pet if you’re able to care for one. Stay physically active. Take the initiative to introduce yourself to others in your community – you never know what connections you might build.”

Shaffer said that it’s important to understand the difference between loneliness and social isolation. Loneliness is the feeling of being alone or isolated, which can happen even when you’re surrounded by others. Social isolation, on the other hand, is a lack of social connections. Both can be detrimental to your health.

“It’s important that people understand the power of social connection and the consequences of social disconnection," Shaffer said. "Actively engaging with people from all walks of life can help make our lives more interesting and enriching. But like any muscle, you need to exercise it – so start today by taking small steps that work for you."

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call 988. For more tips on reducing loneliness and isolation, visit RuralMinds.org.

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