Freakonomics Radio

407. Is There Really a “Loneliness Epidemic”?

Freakonomics Radio ›

33:26 | Feb 27th, 2020

3 recommendations

That’s what some health officials are saying, but the data aren’t so clear. We look into what’s known (and not known) about the prevalence and effects of loneliness — including the possible upsides.



Recommendations

mm recommended:Feb 29th, 2020

The loneliest people are sometimes actually those who live with other, and the least lonely people are those who live alone. Something to think about 🤔

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nrichwineFeb 29th, 2020

@mm I think (without listening to the episode— will correct that later) that this loneliness epidemic is more of an isolation/alienation epidemic

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mmFeb 29th, 2020

@nrichwine You hit the nail on the head.

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alicekoFeb 29th, 2020

SO GOOD

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aliceko recommended:Feb 29th, 2020

YES - longevity is associated with having strong social relationships. Every country needs a Loneliness Minister. There is a difference between loneliness and social isolation. The impact of loneliness on society is huge: there is an enormous public health problem. Studies show that people with suff...Show More

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alicekoMar 1st, 2020

@serena

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