GREENSBORO, N.C. — Today is National Cheer Up the Lonely Day. It might sound like a lighthearted occasion, but loneliness is actually a serious issue affecting millions of Americans. Loneliness is on the rise, becoming a national epidemic.
Social media might make us feel connected, but studies show many people feel isolated and lack strong social bonds. There are a few reasons for this. We're more mobile than ever, moving away from family and friends. Busy schedules leave less time for socializing. And even in crowded cities, people can feel alone in the masses.
Here's the thing many may not realize: loneliness isn't just about feeling sad. Loneliness can have a serious impact on your health by increasing your risk of heart disease, depression, and even dementia.
Here are a few subtle signs that someone is possibly lonely, even if they deny it. They might be overly busy to avoid feeling alone, even if they seem burnt out. They might put on a façade of being the life of the party even though one-on-one connections are hard for them. They might downplay the importance of social connections. They might prefer solitude or say that they don't need many friends. They might also brush off social invitations or seem defensive when someone comments on their social isolation.
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