People across all age groups and all regions of the world are affected by loneliness and social isolation.

Current global estimates suggest that 1 in 4 older adults experience social isolation and between 5 and 15 per cent of adolescents experience loneliness.

Rates in low- and middle-income countries are comparable or higher than in high-income countries.

Social isolation and loneliness have serious, and still under-recognised, impacts on our health and lifespan.

People lacking social connection face a higher risk of early death. Social isolation and loneliness are also linked to anxiety, depression, suicide, and dementia and can increase risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.

Social isolation and loneliness do not just harm individuals; they also have a negative impact on entire communities and societies. Research shows that their safety, prosperity, and effective governance depend greatly on the quality of the social connections within its neighbourhoods, workplaces, and schools.

Promising solutions exist to reduce social isolation and loneliness, ranging from broad national policies to psychological interventions for individuals.

WHO has mapped the evidence, and now needs to analyse it to provide clear evidence to leaders and practitioners about the best ways to improve social connection.