When Loneliness Goes Beyond Emotions

Today, we live in a time when we are more connected than ever. And yet, many people feel lonely. Loneliness is not defined solely by being physically alone, but by the perception of not feeling accompanied, understood, or connected to others.

From a broader perspective on wellbeing, it is becoming increasingly clear that loneliness is not just an emotional experience. It can influence how we feel on a daily basis, our energy levels, how we manage stress, and even how our bodies function. When loneliness persists over time, it can end up having a significant impact on health. For this reason, it is now beginning to be considered a relevant factor in health and wellbeing.

Loneliness: an underestimated risk factor

For a long time, loneliness has been perceived as a temporary and occasional experience. However, current scientific evidence shows that persistent loneliness can have real consequences for health.

Various studies have shown that chronic loneliness is associated with a higher risk of mortality, cardiovascular disease, depression, and cognitive decline (Nakou, A. et al., 2025). In addition, it is increasingly clear that this is not a phenomenon exclusive to a specific population group. Loneliness can appear at any stage of life, from adolescence and youth to adulthood and old age.

In fact, international organizations such as the World Health Organization recognize loneliness as an emerging public health challenge. Although it has traditionally been associated with older adults, in recent years it has been observed more frequently among young people and working-age adults, within a context marked by stress, social pressure, and constant digital connection.

What happens in the body when we feel lonely?

Loneliness sustained over time is associated with the activation of mechanisms related to chronic stress. At a physiological level, different studies have described:

• Alterations in cortisol regulation, the main stress hormone, with potential effects on the immune system, sleep, and metabolism.
  
• The presence of low-grade inflammation, linked to a higher risk of chronic diseases.
  
• Changes in the functioning of the autonomic nervous system, with a greater predominance of a state of alert.
  
• Modifications in appetite regulation and eating behavior.
  

From an evolutionary perspective, the brain interprets loneliness as a signal of threat. Historically, the absence of social bonds implied a lower probability of survival. For this reason, the body activates defense systems that, when maintained over time, can have negative effects on physical and mental balance (Park, C. et al., 2020).

Impact on mental and cognitive health

Emotional wellbeing is one of the areas most directly affected. Loneliness is associated with a higher prevalence of anxiety and depression, as well as a lower perceived quality of life. Moreover, various studies show that the quality of social relationships is one of the strongest predictors of long-term happiness and mental health—often outweighing socioeconomic status or professional success.

In the cognitive domain, loneliness has also been linked to a higher risk of cognitive decline and dementia, possibly mediated by inflammation, chronic stress, and reduced social stimulation.

Loneliness, habits, and lifestyle

The relationship between loneliness and wellbeing is bidirectional. Loneliness can encourage the adoption of less healthy habits, and in turn, these habits can reinforce social isolation. Among the most common associations are:

• Poor sleep quality.
  
• Lower adherence to balanced eating patterns.
  
• Reduced physical activity.
  
• A greater tendency toward emotional consumption of food or substances.
  

All of this directly affects daily energy levels, mood, and the overall perception of wellbeing.

Reconnecting as part of self-care

Talking about wellbeing means going beyond nutrients, supplements, or routines. It also means caring for our relationships. As explained above, feeling connected, heard, and accompanied is a fundamental pillar of health.

Strategies such as fostering meaningful relationships, participating in communities, practicing active listening, or integrating simple social rituals—like sharing meals, doing activities together, or having conversations without screens—have a real impact on physical and mental health.

A holistic approach to wellbeing

Loneliness is not solved with a single intervention, but it can be addressed as part of overall wellbeing: learning to manage stress, taking care of nutrition, promoting rest, regulating the nervous system, and, of course, strengthening social bonds. Understanding loneliness as one more factor in our health, rather than a personal weakness, is key to moving toward a more humane and realistic way of caring for ourselves.

Because, in the end, wellbeing is not just about feeling good with oneself, but also about feeling part of something greater.