Selecting these links will take you away from Cigna. Cigna may not control the content or links of non-Cigna websites. For the best experience on Cigna. Overview Medicare Coverage Options. Broker Resources. Individuals and Families. Health and Wellness. What is chronic loneliness? What are the main signs and symptoms of chronic loneliness? If you consistently feel some or all of the following, you may be dealing with chronic loneliness: Inability to connect with others on a deeper, more intimate level.
Maybe you have friends and family in your life, but engagement with them is at a very surface level. No close or "best" friends.
You have friends, but they are casual friends or acquaintances and you feel you can find no one who truly "gets" you. You can be at a party surrounded by dozens of people and, yet, you feel isolated, separate, and disengaged. At work, you may feel alienated and alone. Same on a bus, train, or walking down a busy street. Negative feelings of self-doubt and self-worth.
Does it feel like you are always less than enough? These feelings--long-term--are another possible symptom of chronic loneliness. Exhaustion and burn out when trying to engage socially. Continued feelings of being drained can lead to other issues like sleep problems, a weakened immune system, poor diet, and more. Can chronic loneliness lead to health problems? What does chronic loneliness do to your brain? For some people chronic loneliness may become a side effect of a medical or emotional problem , including those dealing with the following issues: Substance use Depression and bipolar disorder Serious illness or disease Some mild forms of autism, such as Asperger's Syndrome Dementia and Alzheimer's Sexual orientation issues All of these issues could also lead to long-term feelings of loneliness and isolation.
World globe An icon of the world globe, indicating different international options. Get the Insider App. Click here to learn more. A leading-edge research firm focused on digital transformation. Lauren Schumacker. Loneliness can increase your risk of depression, heart disease, and an early death. Frequent, offline social contact is the best way to keep from feeling too lonely.
Over 3 Million people read Morning Brew, you should too. Loading Something is loading. Feelings of isolation are common, even when surrounded by people. If you've experienced ongoing feelings of loneliness, it can have negative effects on your physical health. It could lead to weight gain, sleep deprivation, poor heart health, and a weakened immune system. Loneliness can also put your body under more stress than normal.
An increased amount of stress can increase blood pressure and affect your memory and problem-solving skills. Making personal connections is key to combatting feelings of loneliness. It's always a good idea to check in with your own feelings and discuss them with others. Again, it's not a matter of how many friends you have, but the presence of close relationships.
Having good relationships will improve your mood and create an opportunity to meet people with same interests. Regular exercise is one of the best things you can do for your overall health. Start a regular exercise regime and fuel your body with nutritious foods. Eating to take care of your body and getting adequate sleep is essential to improving and maintaining your mental and physical health.
If you or someone you know is at risk, seek help. You deserve to feel well. Get feeling better so you can enjoy your life again! If you need help finding a doctor, our Member Advocates can help.
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