Why Loneliness Is A Public Health Issue | Dr. Vivek Murthy

When we think about health, we usually think about diet and exercise. We think about the things we are doing for our physical body to promote wellness. But what about the things we can’t see? Relationships are a big one. Committing just ten to fifteen minutes a day to talking to someone we love is a powerful way to keep ourselves happy and connected, especially now during this time of coronavirus quarantine. Today on The Doctor’s Farmacy, I talk with Dr. Vivek Murthy about nurturing greater connection and what it means for our health.

Dr. Murthy served as the 19th Surgeon General of the United States between 2014-2017. As the Vice Admiral of the US Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, he commanded a uniformed service of 6,600 public health officers globally. During his tenure, Dr. Murthy launched the TurnTheTide campaign, catalyzing a movement among health professionals to address the nation’s opioid crisis. He also issued the first Surgeon General’s Report on Alcohol, Drugs, and Health, calling for expanded access to prevention and treatment and for recognizing addiction as a chronic illness, not a character flaw. In 2017, Dr. Murthy focused his attention on chronic stress and loneliness as prevalent problems that have profound implications for health, productivity, and happiness. His book Together: The Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely World was just published on April 28th.

*For context, this episode was recorded in February 2020.

This episode is sponsored by Simple Mills, Branch Basics, and Farmacy.

[holycompost]

What a beautiful human. Between him and RFK, Junior, I am pumped up and spired and filled with hope.

[sissypat]

YES very good episode people aren't like they use to be I remember when I was growing up family friends neighbors we're always there for you not any more, It so SAD,

[ligiasommers]

Wonderful episode and he brings us a calm state very much wanted 🙏🏻🌷

[ThePowerWithinOnline]

This was so wonderful! I took 3 pages of notes and I'm already putting your suggestions into action. Thank you for sharing this healing information!

[cindy-ejvr]

Before the virus and everyone was put on lockdown, I've been in isolatiofor 5 months now. I actually have people around me that don't include me or talk to me for any reason. It has caused me pain I didn't know I could, worst have been feelings of worthlessness. Your video has helped and as soon as I can change my situation, I WILL !! Thank you both, take care

[denniswilliamson]

Good choice to publish this at this time. Looks like our local communities are going the "Sweden" path, soon.

[janicesmith]

I have been isolated for two years since my husband died. Being alone is not nice if you have a fall, or no one to bring you home from hospital.. families disappear to other countries and further away. my sister lives in another country never rings me I gave up on her and she is alone too which is sad I did so much for her when younger.. I nursed my hubby with cancer and if I end up the same there is no one to help me.. i have a handicapped son who lives in care here. he is all i have near me..

[CR-pfes]

I don't believe all that, he's making up things, ridiculous that loneliness is worse than smoking...junk info