No one desires to feel lonely, but we are all familiar with it. Some people have a harder time dealing with it, and it can affect you physically – causing serious problems.
Feeling lonely over an extended period of time can lead to depression and isolation. It can cause a wedge between friends and family. Consider the following ways that loneliness (if not dealt with) can affect someone physically.
High Blood Pressure
Those who seem to remain in a lonely state often develop high blood pressure. Hypertension increases your risk of a heart attack and stroke. Chronic loneliness is a serious problem leading to this, but moderate feelings of loneliness can also affect you.
Loss of Sleep
Doctors suggest that there is a connection between insomnia and loneliness. Loneliness often leads to shorter sleep times. Also, since loneliness often leads to depression, this can further lead to isolation.
Diet
May people find it hard to fill their diet with healthy food when they are alone – or feel alone. It’s hard to cook meals when it’s easier to throw something in the microwave or stop through a fast-food restaurant. This leads to a lack of the nutrients needed (contact us if you would like to know our suggestions for healthy nutrients). A poor diet often leads to weight gain, poor energy, and other health risks.
Hormonal Imbalance
Cortisol is a common and dangerous hormone when it reaches certain levels, and that often occurs during loneliness. Increased levels can also lead to weigh gain, fatigue, depression, and intestinal issues. It can lead to immune system issues and other issues as well.
Being lonely can be a serious problem. Please – seek the help of others to help you begin to change the situation.