San Mateo County, California, continues to be a leader in the fight against loneliness. In a first-of-its-kind move for a major U.S. county, the Board of Supervisors unanimously declared loneliness a public health crisis in January 2024.
This decision came on the heels of concerning data. A 2022 county survey revealed a staggering 45% of residents reported struggling with isolation and loneliness, a significant increase from 2018. The COVID-19 pandemic likely exacerbated feelings of isolation, but San Mateo County recognizes loneliness as a broader issue demanding attention.
Why is Loneliness a Public Health Crisis?
Loneliness isn’t just a feeling of being alone. It’s the lack of social connection, and research shows it has serious health consequences. Studies have linked chronic loneliness to an increased risk of:
- Dementia
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Early death
Taking Action Against Loneliness
By declaring loneliness a public health crisis, San Mateo County is sending a clear message: social connection is essential for well-being. This groundbreaking move has paved the way for developing strategies to combat loneliness. Here’s the latest on their efforts:
- Funding Initiatives: Supervisor David Canepa, who introduced the resolution, emphasized the need for investment alongside the declaration. Talks are underway to secure funding for programs that promote social connection.
- Campaign Update: The “Are You Lonely?” campaign launched in January 2024 to raise awareness and gather data on loneliness in the county. The hope is that this data will inform future efforts.
- “Minister of Loneliness” Proposal: While not yet implemented, the idea of creating a “Minister of Loneliness” position to spearhead county efforts remains under discussion. This innovative approach could serve as a model for other communities.
A Beacon of Hope
San Mateo County’s groundbreaking decision is a beacon of hope in the fight against loneliness. It highlights the importance of social connection for our physical and mental health. This action could inspire other communities to take similar steps, creating a ripple effect of positive change.
What You Can Do
Loneliness is a widespread issue, but there are things we can all do to combat it. Here are some ways to connect with others and build stronger social bonds:
- Reach out to friends and family
- Join a club or group activity
- Volunteer in your community
- Be a good neighbor
- Use technology to connect with others, like with our Me We Too app! You can connect with others on the little things and the big things. Share who you are, what’s on your mind, what you’re doing, what you like/don’t like, events in your life, your opinions …Silly or serious, or just because. Whether you’re the new student at school, a new parent seeking advice, or someone struggling with a specific challenge, the Me We Too app can help you find a supportive community and feel like you are not alone.
Let’s all play a part in fostering a more connected world, one conversation, one friendship at a time.
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