Surprising ways loneliness affects your health—plus, tips for connecting with others

Loneliness isn’t the same thing as being alone. Instead, it’s a feeling of loss or sadness stemming from a lack of meaningful social connections. A person who isn’t lonely can be by themselves and never feel isolated or sad. A lonely person may feel lost and despondent, even if they’re surrounded by others.

Between one-third and one-half of adults in the United States report feeling lonely, according to government research. And while you can’t see loneliness the way you can a broken leg or an open wound, it can have serious and long-lasting effects, physically and emotionally.

If you feel lonely, don’t shrug it off or think you just have to accept it. Here’s what to know about loneliness, plus strategies for finding a community and building strong relationships.