Fewer nights out with friends, more take-out meals, less theatergoing. Americans are spending more time alone than ever before.
Whether this trend results from an epidemic of loneliness, which leaves people wanting for company, or a century of solitude, in which individuals prioritize solo time, the fact remains that more of us are on our own more often. But humans are social creatures whose well-being depends on belonging, and too much solitude comes with significant health consequences — for individuals and society.
At the same time, the US health care system is “expensive, complicated, dysfunctional” and possibly “broken,” experts say. Higher costs do not translate to better outcomes, and uneven access leads to avoidable disparities for people of color and other marginalized groups.
“Social prescribing,” which entails offering health care referrals for community activities, not just medications, can help on all fronts, argues solutions-focused journalist Julia Hotz. In her book, “The Connection Cure: The Prescriptive Power of Movement, Nature, Art, Service, and Belonging,” Hotz shares how nurturing interpersonal connections and encouraging community involvement can improve individuals’ physical and mental health, while also strengthening communities. Cost-effective, and already popular in the UK, the social prescribing movement is gaining traction in the US.
As evidence mounts that meaningful relationships are as crucial to our well-being as diet and exercise, Hotz explains the science of connection and gives practical suggestions to help combat our growing isolation.