As a health and wellness expert with a background in psychology and social sciences, I can provide you with an informed perspective on the impact of loneliness on health.

Loneliness is a complex emotional state that can lead to feelings of emptiness, sadness, and even depression. While it's not a direct cause of physical death, chronic loneliness has been linked to a variety of health issues that can increase the risk of mortality. Studies have shown that the effects of loneliness on the body can be comparable to those of smoking or obesity. It can lead to increased levels of stress hormones, which over time can contribute to a weakened immune system, cardiovascular disease, and other health problems.

However, it's important to note that loneliness itself does not directly kill, but it can indirectly contribute to a decline in health that may lead to life-threatening conditions. It's also crucial to recognize that the relationship between loneliness and health is complex and influenced by many factors, including an individual's overall health status, social support network, and personal coping mechanisms.

To mitigate the effects of loneliness, it's important to seek social connections, engage in meaningful activities, and consider professional help if feelings of loneliness become overwhelming.

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The authors found that loneliness, social isolation, and living alone were factors in explaining early death. ... Researchers can now turn their attention to examine whether loneliness causes illness that leads to death, or whether lonely people die because of lack of social support to help them cope with illness.read more >>