We all feel alone at some point in our lives. But sometimes we are separated from our loved ones just because of distance and we cannot meet. For example, during Covid, people were separated from each other and could not meet for a long time. This is because mental health problems have been observed in many people after Covid-19. But did you know that loneliness affects not only your mental health, but also your physical health? Yes, experts believe that loneliness increases your health problems by weakening your immune system.
If you also feel lonely for a few days and are often sick during these days, then understand that these two factors are related to each other. It has also been found in many studies that loneliness can affect your immunity.
So let’s find out what is the connection between loneliness and immunity
If you’re lonely, you’re more likely to produce more proteins associated with inflammation in response to stress, according to research presented at Ohio State University. Inflammation is linked to a number of health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, arthritis and Alzheimer’s disease.
People who are lonely are more stressed. Stress caused by loneliness can activate the adrenocortical system, also known as the “flight and fight” response. This response is useful in dealing with a real threat, but it can be harmful if activated continuously over time.
Therefore, loneliness makes us vulnerable to many external infections as our immunity weakens.
It can affect your heart health
A 2012 Harvard study found that middle-aged adults who deal with the stress of loneliness increase their risk of dying from heart disease by 24% in the future. Increased levels of stress hormones increase the accumulation of cholesterol in the heart.
Not only that, loneliness increases levels of the stress hormone cortisol and blood pressure. Therefore, the heart muscles have to work even harder, which slows down the blood circulation system. The blood flow created in this process causes great damage to the blood vessels.
3. Depression caused by loneliness
A study conducted by the University of Chicago shows that when you feel lonely, you also become depressed. In a lonely person, cortisol and other stress-related hormones are activated and cause depression. Therefore, immunity is also weakened.
4. It affects your eating habits
Studies show that when you eat alone, you’re more likely to indulge in unhealthy eating. When you cook for someone and with someone else, you create a nutritious meal that includes a variety of foods.
A study published in the journal Health Psychology reported that people who are lonely are more likely to be physically inactive and eat more.
so what can he do?
If you feel lonely, try to focus on physical activity. It will improve your mood. Try doing things you like like drawing, if you like dancing join a dance class and you will also make new friends. Try to write down your feelings. Writing helps to understand yourself and also keeps the mind light. This will make you feel better.
Also read: These 3 signs that there is conflict in your relationship, know the tips to keep the relationship healthy.
