Scientists from Pennsylvania State University found that people who experience short periods of loneliness are more likely to experience general fatigue, headaches and nausea. Research results published In the Journal of Health Psychology.
Some studies have shown that the long-term health effects of loneliness include a 29% increase in the risk of heart disease, a 32% increase in the risk of stroke, and a 50% increase in the risk of dementia (in older adults). People who often feel lonely are also more likely to suffer from depression and other mental health problems.
In the current study, researchers found that even short periods of loneliness can have a negative impact on a person’s physical health. These results were obtained after an eight-day survey of 1,538 volunteers aged 35 to 65. Participants were asked to report whether they felt lonely and to rate their stress levels and mood. The researchers focused on determining the duration and frequency of periods in which participants described themselves as lonely. The scientists also recorded how the participants’ physical health changed during the “lonely” periods.
Ten years later, data on participants’ well-being and mental health was updated. A repeated study showed that during short periods of loneliness, people were more likely to experience general fatigue, headaches and nausea. However, individuals who are resistant to the negative effects of loneliness may not experience physical symptoms (or the symptoms may be less severe).
Previously AppearedHealthy sleep reduces the damage caused by loneliness.