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Articles on Health effects of loneliness

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Young adults and people living in the inner city are among those most likely to be lonely, according to the ABC’s Australia Talks project. from www.shutterstock.com

Loneliness is a social cancer, every bit as alarming as cancer itself

Loneliness is a bigger cause of death than a poor diet, obesity, alcohol consumption, and lack of exercise, and it’s on a par with heavy smoking. So let’s get talking about it.
One in three 18 to 25 year olds reported feeling lonely three or more times in the past week. Todd Diemer

1 in 3 young adults is lonely – and it affects their mental health

Loneliness is often triggered by significant life events, and young people have these in abundance. But the solution isn’t as simple as joining a group or trying harder to make friends.
People living in private rental housing were much more likely than social housing residents to say they felt lonely. Dundanim/Shutterstock

‘I really have thought this can’t go on’: loneliness looms for rising numbers of older private renters

Increasing numbers of older Australians don’t own their homes. Whether they are private renters or live in social housing can make a big difference to their risk of loneliness and anxiety.
A time of change is upon us. How do you balance risk and reward? REUTERS/Laurent Dubrule

Trust Me, I’m an Expert: Risk

Trust Me, I’m an Expert: Risk CC BY45.3 MB (download)
This month, we're talking risk. Three experts give their perspective on how long you might live, how to deal with loneliness – and how to step outside your comfort zone.
Studies are showing that loneliness can be deadly, even more so than obesity. (Shutterstock)

Loneliness could kill you

Loneliness shortens our life spans and some studies suggest it’s even more lethal than obesity. We are physiologically and psychologically primed for connection, so don’t shrug off your loneliness.

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