2023-11-23 23:00:59
There is a very important topic that is rarely mentioned and it is the loneliness in Latin America. In recent years, the number of people suffering from this condition has increased. The consequences are quite varied and range from an increased risk of mental health problems to committing deadly acts against themselves.
The development of technology offers multiple benefits because it facilitates most daily activities. Although paradoxically it has also led to individualism and the physical separation of people because now everything can be done remotely.
Loneliness in Latin America, a growing problem
Around this point, a recent study conducted by Gallup and Meta reveals that an alarming percentage of young people around the world experience high levels of soledad. Although this is by no means a foreign or remote situation, rather it occurs in fairly close countries.
According to the study, in Latin America In particular, Bolivia (31%) tops the list with the highest proportion of people who feel very or quite lonely. Chile (30%) follows closely and Argentina (28%) also has a high percentage of people who feel very or quite lonely.
The study clarifies that the data “helps explain how people feel, but further research is necessary to find out why.” A possible explanation, according to the study published by The countryit could have to do with the lack of a family or friendship circle, or the absence of financial resources.
What is loneliness?
In its most basic definition it is a feeling of sadness or melancholy. When it remains permanently it is a cause for concern and requires the attention of a health professional.
Health risks of loneliness
Social isolation significantly increases a person’s risk of dying prematurely from all causes, a risk that could rival that of smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity. He Social isolation It is associated with an almost 50% increase in the risk of dementia. Poor social relationships (characterized by social isolation or loneliness) are associated with a 29% increased risk of heart disease and a 32% increased risk of stroke. Loneliness is associated with higher rates of depression, anxiety and suicide. Loneliness in patients with heart failure is associated with a nearly 4-fold increased risk of death, a 68% increased risk of hospitalization, and a 57% increased risk of emergency room visits.
Loneliness is a public health problem
The feeling of feeling alone is increasingly common around the world. While in the past it was exclusive to older adults, it now occurs in people of all ages and from all social strata.
The growing problem has caused the WHO to classify the soledad as a global public health problem. The goal is to implement new strategies immediately before it is too late.
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