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What We Can Learn From England’s Battle Against the Loneliness Epidemic

Emily Laurence

December 28, 2018

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When it comes to health crises, experts tend to focus on the conspicuous, like obesity and diabetes. But the hidden struggles, like depression, anxiety, and loneliness, can be just as damaging to your health. And the sad thing is, according to a sweeping survey, we're lonelier than ever. Fortunately, several organizations are working to change that.

Global health service company Cigna recently launched a free online quiz to help people assess their loneliness, paired with steps to curb it if needed. And across the pond, the English government is pledging to direct more than £11 million ($13 million) toward ending the loneliness epidemic. The money will be used to fund more than 120 initiatives aimed at helping people feel happier and less isolated. From LGBTQ-focused organizations to a support system for displaced Pakistani women, a variety of groups will be eligible to participate in the program, according to The Guardian.