Dr Amir Khan warns UK-wide 'epidemic' is 'as bad as smoking'
In a new episode of No Appointment Necessary, Dr Amir Khan and Cherry Healey discuss why real-life connections matter 'more than ever'
Dr Amir Khan, a practising NHS GP known for his regular ITV daytime appearances on shows like Good Morning Britain and Lorraine, has said that an "epidemic" in the UK could be affecting many people. Speaking on a recent episode of the No Appointments Necessary podcast, the health expert shared his concerns about loneliness and its stereotypes.
Co-host Cherry Healy said: "One of the conversations that's happening at the moment, which seems to be everywhere, is loneliness. I've heard that it is as bad for you as smoking."
When people think of loneliness, they may assume that it's mostly older people who feel forgotten, but younger generations could be at risk, Dr Amir Khan says.
He said: "It affects younger people as well, who are very, very lonely, and they're just engaging online, they're not engaging in real life. All of that affects the way the brain works.
"When you're seeing people in real life - talking, interacting with each other, laughing, listening - we're using different parts of our brain at the same time. One of the best things I can prescribe for my patients is lunch with your friends or a coffee with your granddad."
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Many people have experienced feelings of loneliness, and feeling lonely from time to time can be viewed as a normal part of life. But when loneliness is severe or lasts a long time, it can negatively affect mental health.
The Mental Health Foundation claims that "anyone can experience loneliness", but certain risk factors increase the chances of severe and lasting loneliness that can affect our mental health. These include:
- Being widowed
- Being single
- Being unemployed
- Living alone
- Having a long-term health condition or disability
- Living in rented accommodation
- Being between 16 and 24 years old
- Being a carer
- Being from an ethnic minority community
- Being LGBTQIA+
The Foundation adds that "
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Support for people experiencing loneliness
Dealing with loneliness can be difficult. But there are things we can all do to cope with loneliness and prevent some of the negative feelings and mental health problems that can come with it.
The Mental Health Foundation said: "It can be hard to talk to others when you’re feeling lonely. However, trying to connect with the people you meet as you go about your day can be helpful.
"Even catching someone’s eye and saying hello as you walk along can make you feel better. It could be about saying hello to the postman or going to the shops and talking to the person at the checkout. By sharing a polite greeting, you might find you give someone else a positive lift too."
It also lists some other strategies to help - including finding fulfilling hobbies, stimulating your mind or looking into talking therapies. Click here to see more details.
