Make a difference

 

Isolation and Loneliness can be experienced by anyone, anywhere; from remote communities to the centre of metropolises. The impacts are only now becoming known (JRF, 2013).

For example:

  • Increased risk of depression
  • 64% increased risk of developing clinical dementia
  • Increased risk of high blood pressure
  • An equivalent risk factor for early mortality to smoking 15 cigarettes a day
  • A greater impact than other risk factors such as physical inactivity and obesity

And lonely people:

  • Are vulnerable to alcohol problems
  • Eat less well – they are less likely to eat fruit and vegetables
  • Are more likely to be smokers and more likely to be overweight
  • Are less likely to engage in physical activity and exercise

So what can we all do?

  • Think about people in our local community who may be lonely, for any reason, and think what and how we can make a difference to their lives
  • Lead by example and encourage others to do so too
  • Email communityplanning&dev@shetland.gov.uk to let us know if you’re interested in attending a training session, designed to explore the role we can each play within our communities to reduce loneliness, isolation and stigma

Further information and research: