Social isolation and loneliness have a significant impact on disease-free life expectancy. That is the conclusion from a large study at Tulane University. The notion that social isolation and loneliness are harmful to our health is not new, but this study in the journal Nature Communications suggests just how harmful. Authors say loneliness and social isolation may cost people nearly six years of life free from mental disorders like depression and anxiety, with smaller but significant toll on physical health. While the terms are often used interchangeably, this study defined social isolation and loneliness as separate risks and may be treated as separate conditions by community resources and healthcare providers.
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