The Link Between Loneliness and Chronic Illness
Briefly

The article discusses a recent study by Lewis et al. (2024) that links heightened loneliness with chronic illness, highlighting three themes derived from interviews with individuals affected by various long-term health issues. It challenges the notion that loneliness stems solely from personal behavioral changes, emphasizing the influence of societal conditions. Key themes include the feeling of invisibility due to illness, experiences of being left behind socially, and the overall impact of loneliness on quality of life. This underscores the need for a broader approach when addressing loneliness in those with chronic health conditions.
The recent study on chronic illness and loneliness highlights that loneliness is often perceived as an individual issue, when it is actually shaped by societal factors.
Participants frequently reported feeling invisible due to their chronic illnesses, fearing that disclosing their experiences would jeopardize their social connections.
A recurring theme among those interviewed was the sensation of being left behind, as chronic illness altered their social interactions and personal relationships.
This research emphasizes that interventions need to account for both personal and societal elements to effectively address loneliness in individuals with chronic illnesses.
Read at Psychology Today
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