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The World Health Organization (WHO) Commission on Social Connection has released a global report revealing that 1 in 6 people worldwide experiences loneliness, contributing to over 871,000 deaths annually—or roughly 100 every hour. Strong social connections, the report says, promote better health and longer life.

WHO defines social connection as the ways people relate to and interact with others. Loneliness is the painful feeling that arises when actual social relationships fall short of what is desired. Social isolation, by contrast, refers to the objective absence of sufficient social ties.

Loneliness spans all age groups but is especially common among youth and in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Between 17–21% of individuals aged 13–29 report feeling lonely, with teenagers most affected. In low-income countries, 24% of people report loneliness—more than twice the rate in high-income nations.

Though data on social isolation is limited, it’s estimated to affect 1 in 3 older adults and 1 in 4 adolescents. Vulnerable groups—such as people with disabilities, migrants, LGBTQ+ individuals, and ethnic minorities—often face added barriers to social connection, including discrimination and marginalization.

Multiple factors contribute to loneliness: poor health, low income or education, living alone, weak public infrastructure, and harmful digital habits. Excessive screen time and negative online interactions can particularly affect youth mental health.

The health impact is too serious to ignore. Loneliness raises the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, cognitive decline, depression, anxiety, and even suicide. It also undermines learning and employment, while costing societies billions in productivity and healthcare.

The WHO report calls for global action in five key areas: policy, research, interventions, better measurement (including a global Social Connection Index), and public engagement. Solutions span from strengthening social infrastructure such as parks, libraries and cafes to raising awareness and offering mental health support.

The report points out that every person can make a difference by following simple steps like reaching out to a friend in need, putting away one’s phone to be fully present in conversation, greeting a neighbour, joining a local group, or volunteering.

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