Suicide Rates by Industry & Occupation (2000-2017)

A new report from the CDC provides insight into suicide rates among different industries and occupations in the United States. The key takeaways: Suicide rates have increased 40% from 2000 to 2017 among working-age adults (ages 16-64). Men who work in the mining, construction, and other manual labor jobs have the highest suicide rates. Women …

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Study Finds Antidepressants Reduce Empathy, Depression Doesn’t

A study finds that antidepressant treatment reduces empathy – but depression itself doesn’t impact empathy. Key Facts: People with untreated depression showed normal empathy and brain responses. After 3 months of antidepressant treatment, they showed reduced empathy and brain responses. The more their depressive symptoms improved, the more their empathy decreased. Antidepressants specifically reduced emotional …

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Genetic Predisposition to Loneliness: Is Your DNA to Blame?

Loneliness is a painful feeling that arises when there is a mismatch between one’s desired social connections and actual relationships. Chronic loneliness is increasingly prevalent in modern societies and strongly tied to poor mental and physical health outcomes, including higher risks of depression, cardiovascular disease, and mortality. New genetic research provides key insights into the …

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The Silent Killer: How Loneliness Weakens Monkeys’ Immunity & What It Means for Humans

Feeling lonely and socially isolated is associated with poorer health outcomes and increased risk of early mortality. Research in monkeys now reveals how loneliness impacts the immune system, providing clues into the mechanisms underlying the health risks of loneliness. Key Facts: Lonely monkeys show altered activity in the sympathetic nervous system and compromised immune cell …

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Loneliness: A Growing Problem That Increases Risk of Premature Death

Loneliness is a growing public health crisis that affects a significant portion of the population and increases the risk of premature death. Here are some key facts on loneliness: Over 30% of people experience loneliness, with 1 in 12 severely affected. Loneliness increases the risk of premature death by 26%. Loneliness has similar health risks …

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Loneliness & The Brain: Triggering Evolutionary Responses to Seek Connection

Loneliness is painful, but it may serve an important purpose. New research explores how loneliness affects the brain and body in humans and animals. The findings reveal that loneliness triggers primal responses designed to get us to seek out social connection. Key facts: Loneliness activates threat responses in the brain and body to motivate us …

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Loneliness: The Hidden Health Epidemic

Loneliness is increasingly prevalent yet often overlooked in our lives. Research is uncovering just how detrimental chronic loneliness can be to both our mental and physical health. Key Facts: Loneliness is feeling alone despite having social connections, not simply being alone. It is the perception of isolation. Prevalence of loneliness rose from 11-17% in the …

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