Loneliness is one of the most common problems in modern society, which not only affects people's quality of life, but also significantly affects the costs of healthcare systems. A study by British scientists, published in the journal PLOS One , showed that people who often feel lonely cost the UK's National Health Service (NHS) £885 more per year than their sociable peers.
The study, which surveyed more than 23,000 Britons between 2021 and 2023 about their well-being, levels of loneliness and visits to health facilities, found that 8% of respondents often felt lonely, and another 32% sometimes. Loneliness is associated with poorer mental and physical health, as well as increased visits to GPs and clinics.
According to the World Health Organization, social isolation and loneliness are considered a serious threat to the health of the world's population. They increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, depression, and anxiety disorders.
Researchers note that medical costs increase the most among single young and elderly people, while this difference decreases in middle age.
Many countries, including the UK, are already implementing national programmes to combat loneliness. They aim to promote social and online connections, especially among people at risk, such as the elderly. Experts believe that such programmes not only improve quality of life, but also help reduce healthcare costs.
