This is according to the findings of a report by the World Health Organisation which also estimates that loneliness is linked to an estimated 100 deaths every hour.

Loneliness is described as the painful feeling that rises from a gap between desired and actual social connections.

The report also looks at social isolation and estimates that 1 in 3 older adults and 1 in 4 adolescents feel socially isolated and people with disabilities, refugees or migrants, LGBTQ+ individuals and ethnic minorities are among the worst affected.

Findings also show that loneliness and social isolation increase the risk of health conditions like stroke, heart disease and diabetes; can impact mental health, learning and employment and costs billions in lost productivity and healthcare.

Yet solutions to reduce loneliness and social isolation exist at multiple levels – and range from raising awareness to strengthening social infrastructure.

WHO are now calling on communities and individuals to make social connections a public health priority.

If you know someone who is lonely, reach out to them, put away your phone to be fully present in the conversation, encourage them to join a local group or to find a volunteering opportunity. If the problem is more serious, find out what support services are available.