How Loneliness Reshapes the Brain

How Loneliness Reshapes the Brain

3/3/2023

link

https://www.quantamagazine.org/how-loneliness-reshapes-the-brain-20230228/

summary

This article discusses the impact of loneliness on the brain and how it can reshape its structure and functioning. Loneliness is shown to trigger a series of physiological and psychological responses that can have long-lasting effects on mental and physical health. The article highlights research findings that suggest chronically lonely individuals may experience changes in brain regions involved in social connection and emotional regulation. It explores the potential mechanisms behind these changes, including increased stress and inflammation, as well as decreased neural activity in areas related to social interaction. The article also delves into the evolutionary implications of loneliness and the importance of social connections for overall well-being. Overall, it provides valuable insights into the profound influence of loneliness on the brain.

tags

social bonding ꞏ mental health ꞏ mental well-being ꞏ loneliness and stress ꞏ brain plasticity ꞏ social support ꞏ psychological well-being ꞏ loneliness and isolation ꞏ loneliness and health ꞏ neuroscience ꞏ social cognition ꞏ brain connectivity ꞏ loneliness and brain function ꞏ loneliness ꞏ social neuroscience ꞏ social relationships ꞏ social interaction ꞏ emotional well-being ꞏ social psychology ꞏ neurobiology ꞏ social dynamics ꞏ social anxiety ꞏ social determinants of health ꞏ neural circuits ꞏ emotional loneliness ꞏ loneliness epidemic ꞏ social behavior ꞏ loneliness and technology ꞏ loneliness and aging ꞏ cognitive development ꞏ social influence ꞏ loneliness and mortality ꞏ social consequences ꞏ social exclusion ꞏ loneliness and cognition ꞏ social networks ꞏ social isolation ꞏ emotional regulation ꞏ loneliness and immune system ꞏ social capital ꞏ loneliness and cardiovascular health ꞏ social interconnectedness ꞏ mental health stigma ꞏ loneliness and depression ꞏ social integration ꞏ brain development ꞏ social withdrawal ꞏ social connection