Loneliness affects more than a fifth of people worldwide, a new survey warns.
In a Gallup poll released Wednesday, 23% of people said they felt very lonely. Those who experienced feelings of loneliness often felt physical pain, worry, sadness, stress and anger.
Beyond its emotional toll, loneliness is "a medical problem" that should be taken "very seriously," psychiatrist Dr. Sue Varma told CBS News.
"It's the equivalent of someone smoking 15 cigarettes a day, and we know it affects our minds and bodies," she said. "It predisposes us to anxiety and depression. It increases our risk by 30% for heart disease, stroke, 50% for dementia and 60% for premature mortality."
But there is a way to combat loneliness, she added.
“Look at the quality of your relationships and say, 'Do I feel seen and valued?'” Varma said.
“We want to have a mix of microconnections – talking to the bartender, talking to your dog walker – but also deep and meaningful connections in your life, where you can feel vulnerable and open to sharing emotions,” she explained.