Loneliness is associated with premature death in people with heart disease
Loneliness, social isolation, or living alone have all been linked to an increased risk of mortality in persons with cardiovascular disease.
That is one of the findings of new research from the University of Limerick (UL), which provides fresh light on the detrimental health implications of loneliness.
According to an international study published in the journal Psychosomatic Medicine, patients with cardiovascular disease who experience more loneliness and social isolation and live alone are more likely to die early.
The researchers, led by UL student Róisn Long and overseen by Drs. Páraic Silleabháin and Ann-Marie Creaven, intended to see if loneliness, social isolation, and living alone might predict the risk of long-term mortality in persons with cardiovascular disease.
Long, a clinical psychologist by trade, said, "Loneliness and social isolation have recently gained a lot of attention, and they are really essential to consider in the context of cardiovascular health.
"The extent to which they impact the lifetime of persons with cardiovascular disease is unknown.
Our study has demonstrated that each of these criteria is critical in the management of cardiovascular disease, since growing loneliness, social isolation, and living alone appear to contribute to early mortality.
Long noted that the study's findings are most likely attributable to a variety of factors.
These range from another person's support to a person's physiologic response to stress.
The study comprised studies that tracked people over decades in many areas, including Europe, North America, and Asia. Each characteristic was discovered to be predictive of mortality risk.
The research was carried out by the UL team in partnership with the Florida State University School of Medicine and the Humboldt University Institute of Psychology in Berlin.
Dr. Páraic Silleabháin, coordinator of the clinical psychology PhD program and head of UL's Personality, Individual Differences, and Biobehavioral Health Laboratory (Pathlab), stated, "This study sheds light on the significance of these determinants in terms of health and lifespan. We place a high importance on thorough research with international impact in our PhD program, and this study definitely falls into that.
"These are apparent criteria that should be considered in order to create strategies for all patients with cardiovascular disease.
Loneliness is associated with premature death in people with heart disease: FAQs
How does loneliness affect heart health?
Loneliness can have a negative impact on heart health. Studies have shown that loneliness and social isolation are associated with an increased risk of heart disease. This may be due to several factors, including the fact that loneliness and social isolation can lead to unhealthy behaviors such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, which are known to increase the risk of heart disease.
Loneliness and social isolation may also have a direct effect on the body's physiological processes, including the release of stress hormones and inflammation, which can contribute to the development of heart disease. In addition, loneliness and social isolation may lead to a lack of social support, which can make it more difficult for individuals to manage chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for heart disease.
It's important to note that loneliness is a subjective experience and can affect people of all ages and backgrounds. If you are feeling lonely, it's important to reach out for support and to engage in activities that can help reduce feelings of loneliness, such as volunteering, joining a club or group, or spending time with friends and family.
How does isolation affect the heart?
Isolation, like loneliness, can have a negative impact on heart health. Studies have shown that social isolation is associated with an increased risk of heart disease. This may be due to several factors, including the fact that isolation can lead to unhealthy behaviors such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, which are known to increase the risk of heart disease.
Isolation may also have a direct effect on the body's physiological processes, including the release of stress hormones and inflammation, which can contribute to the development of heart disease. In addition, isolation may lead to a lack of social support, which can make it more difficult for individuals to manage chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for heart disease.
It's important to note that social isolation can affect people of all ages and backgrounds. If you are experiencing isolation, it's important to reach out for support and to engage in activities that can help reduce feelings of isolation, such as volunteering, joining a club or group, or spending time with friends and family.
What happens if you isolate yourself for too long?
If you isolate yourself for too long, it can have negative consequences for your physical and mental health. Prolonged social isolation can lead to feelings of loneliness and can affect your overall well-being. It can also lead to unhealthy behaviors such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, which can increase the risk of certain health conditions such as heart disease and certain types of cancer.
Prolonged social isolation can also have negative impacts on your mental health. It can increase the risk of developing mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. It can also make it more difficult to cope with stress and can interfere with your ability to form and maintain relationships.
If you are feeling isolated, it's important to reach out for support and to engage in activities that can help reduce feelings of isolation, such as volunteering, joining a club or group, or spending time with friends and family. If you are struggling to cope with feelings of loneliness or isolation, it may be helpful to talk to a mental health professional. They can provide you with support and help you develop strategies to cope with these feelings and improve your overall well-being.
What does living alone do to a person?
Living alone can have both positive and negative effects on a person. Some people may enjoy the independence and freedom that comes with living alone, while others may find it isolating and lonely. The impact of living alone on a person's well-being can depend on a variety of factors, including the individual's personality, social support network, and overall life circumstances.
On the positive side, living alone can provide a sense of autonomy and control over one's environment. It can also allow for more privacy and personal space. Some people may find that living alone helps them to better manage their time and responsibilities, and may feel more productive as a result.
However, living alone can also have negative consequences for a person's well-being. It can increase the risk of social isolation and loneliness, which can have negative impacts on physical and mental health. Living alone can also make it more difficult to manage daily tasks and responsibilities, such as maintaining a healthy diet and getting enough exercise.
It's important to find a balance between enjoying the independence and freedom that comes with living alone, while also seeking out social connections and support to prevent feelings of loneliness and isolation. If you are living alone and struggling to cope, it may be helpful to talk to a mental health professional who can provide you with support and help you develop strategies to improve your well-being.
What are the biggest reasons for premature death?
There are many factors that can contribute to premature death, and the specific causes can vary depending on a person's age, gender, and overall health. Some of the leading causes of premature death worldwide include:
Cardiovascular disease: This includes conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, and coronary artery disease, which can lead to premature death if not properly managed.
Cancer: Cancer is a leading cause of premature death, and there are many different types of cancer that can be fatal.
Respiratory diseases: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other respiratory diseases can lead to premature death if not properly treated.
Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to serious complications such as kidney disease, nerve damage, and heart disease, which can increase the risk of premature death.
HIV/AIDS: HIV/AIDS is a serious and potentially fatal condition if not properly managed with antiretroviral therapy.
Accidents: Unintentional injuries, such as car accidents, falls, and drowning, are a leading cause of premature death, especially among younger people.
It's important to note that many of these causes of premature death can be prevented or managed through lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and not smoking, as well as through access to quality healthcare.