Loneliness Is Not A Health Healer

Chronic loneliness is a sign of the times

- Shri C.K Subramaniam

Healthy living is not a privilege, but a right. Sadly, however, in our country, healthy living is more like a right in the pocket of people who are able and willing to pay for it. It is time to provide easy access to superior quality, affordable fitness regimens that will be an integral part of the routine of every Indian. It is time to keep pace with the present conditions prevailing in the universe.

Chronic loneliness among young Indian urbanites is a mental health issue that is not getting the attention it surely deserves. Stock images of loneliness often depict the elderly in darkened rooms staring into nothingness, but the reality is starkly different. This is not to say the elderly in India are not lonely; but the phenomenon is worryingly showing up among a large number of young urban Indians.

Social-network savvy folks in their 20s and 30s, living in our choking-with-people cities are increasingly feeling friendless, isolated, and depressed. Worse, they are unable to recognize and acknowledge how loneliness has the potential to destroy them and thus do not reach out for help until it is too late. Be self-aware. Notice your emotions and feelings and how you respond to adverse situations. If you often feel overburdened and your emotions are interfering in your daily activities, it is time to be concerned.