One Is The Loneliest Number
One is the Loneliest Number
In a recent 2016 Harris poll survey 72% of the individuals surveyed stated they had an intense feeling of loneliness. Insurance company Cigna has a loneliness index and in a 2018 study they shared that loneliness has the same impact on mortality as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, making it even more dangerous than obesity. I know pretty sobering right! The first question many of you may be asking is why? For others this may be no surprise at all.
In Genesis chapter 3 there is a reference that God literally walked with Adam and Eve in the garden. He created us for connection and fellowship. When we isolate or withdraw we are literally going against our wiring. We have more enticements than ever before with social media, movies etc. We have seen a significant drop off from church attendance since the pandemic. If you only look at the numbers this is concerning! It is no coincidence that there also a rise with reported cases of individuals dealing with depression and anxiety. The CDC is now encouraging all Physicians, as part of their routine checkups with individuals, to ask if there are any issues with depression and anxiety. If you are like me it's easy to be worried about where this is heading!
So what can we do about this? We can connect! Make efforts to find a church home. One of the good things about social media is it does allow you to check out a Church online and watch one of their streaming services to see if perhaps you would like to attend. Another step is to look at your world. By that I mean who do you meet with on a regular basis? Do you have anyone in your life you pray with or for? Are you connected in any activity where you are giving to others? There are many opportunities at the local church whether you visit regularly or not. Just make a phone call and see if there are any needs the church is addressing in the community. As the studies reflect it is not only good for your mental health but your physical health as well.
If you feel stuck and in a routine you just can't seem to get out of we are here to help. If we can be of service call us at 912-352-7638.
Keith Niager LCSW
