The United States is facing a growing crisis of loneliness and isolation, with many Americans feeling disconnected from their communities and lacking meaningful social connections. This phenomenon, often referred to as “bowling alone,” has been described as an “epidemic” by former Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, who has highlighted the serious health risks associated with loneliness and isolation.
According to a 2024 survey by the Pew Research Center, about 16% of adults, including around one-quarter of adults under 30, report feeling lonely or isolated all or most of the time. Furthermore, a 2020 book by Harvard’s Robert Putnam and Shaylyn Romney Garrett, “The Upswing,” found that memberships in many organizations, including service, veterans, scouting, fraternal, religious, parental, and civic groups, have continued their long decline into the 21st century.
Understanding the Issue
The decline in civic engagement and social connections has been attributed to various factors, including worsening political polarization, destructive economic forces, and the pervasive use of social media. Murthy has noted that social media, in particular, has become an endless scroll of performance, provocation, and unattainably perfect body types, which can contribute to feelings of loneliness and disconnection.
Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has temporarily exacerbated social isolation, and while there has been some rebound, many Americans are still struggling to reconnect with their communities. Scholars and activists have cited various potential causes and effects of disconnection, ranging from rat-race schedules to the erosion of trust in institutions.
Health Risks and Consequences
The health risks associated with loneliness and isolation are significant, with isolation and loneliness being “risk factors for several major health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, dementia, depression, and premature mortality,” according to Murthy’s report. Moreover, a 2024 report by the Survey Center on American Life, “Disconnected: The Growing Class Divide in American Civic Life,” found that about two in 10 U.S. adults have no close friends outside of family, and about one-quarter of adults have at least six close friends, down from nearly half in 1990.
The consequences of loneliness and isolation are far-reaching, with those who are already struggling, such as those with lower incomes and educations, being hit the hardest. These individuals tend to report having fewer close friends, fewer civic gathering places in their communities, and fewer people who could help out in a pinch.
Efforts to Reconnect Americans
Despite the challenges, there are many efforts underway to reconnect Americans and build stronger, more resilient communities. Small organizations and informal groups of people are working to build community through formal programs and less structured events, such as potluck dinners. Murthy’s “Together Project,” supported by the Knight Foundation, aims to support and accelerate these efforts.
Other initiatives, such as Weave: The Social Fabric Project at the Aspen Institute, are providing training and resources for community builders, including a searchable database of volunteer opportunities and an online forum for connecting community builders. These efforts recognize that building community is a critical step in addressing the crisis of loneliness and isolation in America.
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