Loneliness affects everyone, no matter your age. But good news — building friendships can boost your health, happiness, and even your lifespan! Here’s how to make meaningful connections that stick. 👥💖

Why Loneliness Matters 🚨

• Loneliness increases risk of premature death by 50%

• Linked to heart disease, stroke, depression, anxiety, dementia

• Raises emergency room visits and doctor appointments

• Affects mental and physical health seriously

But loneliness is a human experience, not a personal failure. And it can be prevented! ✨

Why Are We More Lonely? 🤔

• Traditional communities have faded away

• Social circles shrink due to life changes — moving, illness, loss

• Social media often replaces deep connection with surface interaction

• COVID-19 lockdowns increased isolation for many

• Feeling lonely can make you withdraw—making it even worse

How To Connect & Build Friendships 🌈

Friendships aren’t found—they’re made by sharing experiences. Here’s how:

• Join a community or group that shares your interests

• Focus on being part of something, not just finding a friend

• Get involved regularly in activities you love or want to try

• Remember: You’re also the solution to other people’s loneliness!

A great example is Stitch, a community connecting people through shared activities and kindness, both online and in-person.

Real Changes From Real Connections 💬💪

• Many go from isolated to active, confident, and happy

• People report feeling valued and experiencing less loneliness

• Active communities reduce loneliness by up to 63%

• Being in a community motivates healthier habits ⛹️‍♀️🥗

Safety Matters — How To Protect Yourself 🛡️

• Look for groups with strict verification processes

• Choose communities with clear rules and member feedback systems

• Real-world meetups help build trust and avoid scams

• Trust your instincts and use caution, but don’t let fear stop you

Start Today! 🎉

You deserve meaningful friendships, no matter your age or background. Here’s your action plan:

• Take a small step: join a group or attend a local event

• Try new activities and meet new people

• Reach out before loneliness deepens—don’t wait for a big change

• Think of connection as giving as much as receiving

 🎬🎧 Watch / Listen to the Podcast for More Stories

Hear Andrew Dowling from Stitch share inspiring stories and practical tips to build connection.

Available on:

• YouTube here

• Apple Podcasts here

• Spotify here

🚀 Take Action Now

Loneliness doesn’t have to hold you back. You can create friendships that brighten your life and improve your health. Don’t wait! Connection is waiting for you—because everyone deserves to feel they belong. 💛

Need an injection of motivation, help overcoming a specific obstacle or after a customised plan? Book a session at bookings

Curious about your health? Learn about the free Health Selfie App and do YOUR health self assessment  here

Like to do things at your own pace? Get The Wellness RoadMap and start right now. Learn what to focus on first, how to implement new habits, overcome obstacles and set a new trajectory for your health. Go to The Wellness Roadmap

 References

Dowling, A. (2025). Wellness Nurse Podcast Interview.
Holt-Lunstad, J. (2015). Loneliness and mortality risk. Perspectives on Psychological Science.
Valtorta, N., et al. (2016). Loneliness and heart disease/stroke risk. Heart.