NOTe, a collective of committed actors, share a deep conviction: social isolation represents a silent enemy with alarming consequences in terms of public health and social cohesion. The current figures challenge us and confront us with an indisputable reality: being socially isolated increases the risk of mental and physical disorders, compromises the effectiveness of treatments, and leads to more frequent hospitalizations.
Loneliness, in particular, is linked to a risk of premature death increased by 26%, while social isolation increases it to 29%. The ravages of loneliness are comparable to smoke fifteen cigarettes a day, even surpassing the harms of obesity and regular alcohol consumption. These statistics alert us to the urgency of action.
On November 15, 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) launched a commission aimed at promoting social ties, bringing together eminent personalities. We welcome this initiative and call for this issue to be recognized and funded in France as a real public health priority.
Economic burden
The UK and Japan have already taken significant steps by appointing ministers dedicated to tackling loneliness. On the European continent, the European Union (EU) plans to invest more than 50 million euros in the coming years to combat social isolation.
In the United States, the annual cost to employers due to stress-related absenteeism is estimated to more than 154 billion dollars (around 141 billion euros). The American Association of Senior Citizens estimates that the lack of social contact among older adults represents $6.7 billion in additional annual spending for American public health. Ignoring the growing economic burden of loneliness is no longer sustainable.
In France, we face an alarming challenge. According to Joint Research Center of the European Union, approximately 15% of French people say they are alone most of the time, making our country one of the most affected by loneliness in Europe. While Public Health France is implementing strategies against obesity, smoking and alcohol consumption, it is imperative to integrate the fight against social isolation into a national public health program. Adopting a comprehensive, systemic and evidence-based approach to countering the loneliness of our fellow citizens must become a priority.
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