We often think of loneliness as a feeling. A quiet sadness, a dull ache in the heart. Something that comes and goes with the seasons or life changes. But loneliness isn’t just a passing emotion. It is a serious mental health issue. In fact, loneliness is a growing public health crisis — and in many cases, it can be fatal.
Loneliness kills. Not metaphorically. Literally.
The Alarming Truth About Loneliness and Health
According to Harvard Medical School, chronic loneliness is as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. It increases the risk of early death by 26% and is strongly linked to:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Dementia
- Depression and suicide
- Weakened immune system
A 2023 report from the World Health Organisation identified social disconnection as a global public health priority. Its health effects are similar to those caused by obesity and physical inactivity.
That same year, Dr. Vivek Murthy, the U.S. Surgeon General, declared loneliness an epidemic. It affects people across all stages of life: new parents, teenagers, empty nesters, older adults, and even those who appear to be socially connected.
“We live in the most technologically connected age in the history of civilisation, yet rates of loneliness have doubled.”
– Dr. Vivek Murthy
Loneliness is Not About Being Alone — It's About Feeling Unseen
Loneliness is not always visible. You might be in a relationship. You might be caring for children or working in a busy job. But you still feel emotionally isolated. Disconnected. Unseen.
At Drop of Life Psychology Clinic on the Gold Coast, we see this every day.
Take Julie. She has a partner, two kids, a job, and friends. But she feels like she is carrying everything on her own. Her husband is burnt out, the children are having trouble at school, and somewhere in the chaos, she has lost herself.
Does this resonate with you?
The Path Back from Loneliness
Here’s the good news: loneliness can be treated. It’s not a permanent state. Connection can be rebuilt and you don’t have to do it alone.
Some of the ways we help clients reconnect include:
- Couples therapy to strengthen emotional intimacy
- Child and adolescent assessments for school and behavioural support
- Perinatal counselling to rediscover identity and purpose
- Support groups and community-based therapy to foster shared understanding
- Safe, non-judgmental therapy sessions to feel heard and supported
August at Drop of Life: Rebuild & Reignite
This month, our psychology clinic is focusing on rebuilding human connection through evidence-based therapy, support groups, neurodivergent assessments, and our new Perinatal Package. Whether you’re seeking anxiety counselling, emotional support, or help navigating life transitions, our team is here to walk alongside you.
Because loneliness might be common. But it should never be considered normal.
You are not alone. And you don’t have to walk through this alone.
Book your appointment today
Visit: www.dropoflife.com.au
Call: (07) 5520 7705
