The average American has only one close friend.
This is troubling (especially during COVID), as loneliness is linked to depression and higher rates of heart attack and premature death.
What we see on the news is COVID deaths but what lies beneath is perhaps an even bigger pandemic waiting to come. It’s not something we talk about. It’s not something that gets reported on CNN or Fox News. But it’s something that is worth talking about before it’s too late.
80% of young adults faced "significant depressive symptoms” during COVID—what happens next? We don’t read about this in the news—yet it may truly be the next pandemic that is brewing in the shadows…the loneliness pandemic.
But what we can do is talk about it. Acknowledge it. To destigmatize mental health. And be there for our loved ones, friends, and colleagues—because you never know what is happening with someone.
A good reminder for me to check in with my family, friends, and colleagues.