A new study finds loneliness can become a greater health risk than obesity.
A study done by the health insurance company Cigna found loneliness brings with it a 29% greater chance of death. To put that in perspective, the study says it has "the same impact on mortality as smoking 15 cigarettes a day."
Experts say there's a strong link between physical and mental health. The new study found loneliness plays into that link, with those who were less lonely getting better sleep, spending more time with loved ones, and exercising more.
University at Buffalo Chair of Psychiatry Michael Cummings says if you're feeling lonely, basic social exercises like going out to eat with friends and being out where you're comfortable can go a long way toward taking steps for your health.
