Loneliness: A Health Crisis Costing Billions — How Get Out is Here to Help
In an age where digital connection is ubiquitous, loneliness remains a growing health crisis, with significant consequences for both individuals and society. Recent studies reveal that chronic loneliness can be as harmful as smoking or obesity, linked to increased risks of mental health issues, heart disease, and even early mortality. This silent epidemic, which costs Australians an estimated $2.7 billion annually, is both a personal and societal challenge that demands action.
The recent University of Delaware symposium underscored the severity of loneliness globally. Dr. Thomas Cudjoe, a geriatrician from Johns Hopkins University, highlighted that isolation doubles the risk of requiring nursing home care and raises mortality risk by 30% among the elderly. However, the impact isn’t limited to older adults. In Australia, young adults particularly, are increasingly affected, with Melbourne University’s HILDA survey noting rising rates of loneliness and psychological distress among younger demographics. A deeper look into HILDA’s data reveals that young Australians now report higher loneliness levels than older generations, a shift that researchers link to the pervasive use of social media and smartphones, which may substitute but not truly satisfy our need for real connection.
Why Loneliness Costs Us All
The financial toll of loneliness is staggering. In Australia alone, the $2.7 billion yearly cost reflects not only increased healthcare expenses but also lost productivity, as isolated individuals are more likely to experience chronic illness and rely on healthcare services. Dr. Kelli Harding from Columbia University, as reported by ABC News, even equates loneliness to smoking 15 cigarettes a day in terms of its physical health risks.
The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated the problem. During lockdowns, digital interactions grew, yet our need for real human contact remained unmet. This effect persists, with Gallup data noting that around 20% of American adults experience daily loneliness — an all-time high. Generation Z, which came of age amidst the social media boom and pandemic, may be the loneliest generation yet. According to Gallup, this demographic often struggles to form meaningful in-person connections, despite their high levels of online interaction.
The Call for Change: How Get Out Can Help
With the steady decline of physical LGBTQIA+ spaces, such as community centres and gay bars, platforms like Get Out are stepping up to bridge the gap. We envision Get Out as more than just an app; it’s a community-first platform that facilitates real-world, genuine connections. Rather than relying on algorithms designed to keep users engaged, Get Out focuses on fostering environments where people can come together over shared interests and values.
As studies show, small moments of connection — a conversation with a friend or a shared activity — can dramatically reduce feelings of loneliness. Brandon Bailys from Thrive Peer Support recently reported that connection plays a vital role in mental wellness, with support groups and social clubs offering more than just companionship; they’re lifelines for those struggling with isolation. A professional cuddler featured in ABC News' coverage on loneliness even highlighted how platonic touch therapy has helped some individuals ease their loneliness. These examples illustrate that simple, intentional interactions are the remedy for isolation, far beyond the transactional engagements common on many dating platforms.
The Future of Connection: Real, Meaningful Community
While loneliness has physical and mental health consequences, we don’t have to face it alone. Get Out is here to change how we think about community, creating spaces, events and opportunities for people to connect in ways that enrich their lives and combat loneliness. Whether it’s through shared hobbies, meaningful conversations, or support for personal growth, our platform champions authentic, lasting relationships that digital swipes alone cannot offer.
So, perhaps it’s time to rethink our reliance on fleeting digital interactions. As we aim to be the glue that connects people across both regional and urban spaces, Get Out is here to remind us all that no one should feel like they have to do it all alone.