Loneliness is a growing problem in our society. According to a recent study by the Pew Research Center, about one in four adults in the United States say they often or always feel lonely. Loneliness can have a significant impact on our physical and mental health, and it can even shorten our lifespan.
New research suggests that loneliness may also change the way our brains work. A study published in the journal Nature Human Behaviour found that lonely people have different brain activity patterns than people who are not lonely. Specifically, lonely people have more activity in the default mode network (DMN), a network of brain regions that is involved in self-referential thought and introspection.
The DMN is thought to be involved in a number of important cognitive functions, such as daydreaming, mind-wandering, and social cognition. However, too much activity in the DMN can be a bad thing. When the DMN is overactive, it can lead to rumination, anxiety, and depression.
The study’s authors suggest that loneliness may lead to increased DMN activity because lonely people are constantly thinking about their social isolation. They may be ruminating on past social interactions, worrying about future social interactions, or simply feeling lonely and isolated.
This increased DMN activity may then lead to a number of negative downstream effects, such as impaired cognitive function, increased stress levels, and a weakened immune system.
The findings of this study highlight the importance of social connection for our mental and physical health. If you are feeling lonely, it is important to reach out to others and build strong social relationships. There are a number of things you can do to connect with others, such as joining a club or group, volunteering, or simply spending time with friends and family.
If you are struggling with loneliness, it is also important to seek professional help. A therapist can help you to understand the root of your loneliness and develop strategies for coping with it.
Here are some additional resources for people who are struggling with loneliness:
- The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/: 1-800-273-8255
- The Jed Foundation: https://www.jedfoundation.org/: A nonprofit organization that provides mental health resources for teens and young adults
- The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: https://afsp.org/: A nonprofit organization that works to prevent suicide
- The National Alliance on Mental Illness: https://www.nami.org/: A nonprofit organization that provides mental health support and advocacy
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