12 WWW.AGRM.ORG MAY/JUNE 2018 Lonely Hearts A quick peek into our solitary lives A startling research conclusion was revealed recently at the American Psychological Association’s annual convention: “Loneliness and social isolation could be a greater public health hazard than obesity, and their impact will continue to grow.” Julianne Holt-Lunstad, a professor of psychology at Brigham Young University, added, “Being connected to others socially is widely considered a fundamental human need—crucial to both well-being and survival. Yet an increasing portion of the U.S. population now experiences isolation regularly.” The most recent U.S. census data shows more than a quarter of the population lives alone, more than half the population is unmarried, and marriage rates and the number of children per household have declined since the last census. And according to a psychcentral.com report, approximately 42.6 million adults over age 45 in the United States are estimated to be suffering from chronic loneliness. Studies show that pets can help protect against loneliness, depression, and anxiety. The bond between a person and a pet becomes an important and rewarding relationship. In fact, research has found that owning a dog plays a significant role in survival rates for heart attack victims. Other data shows that people on Medicaid or Medicare who are pet owners make fewer visits to the doctor. The unconditional love that an animal gives to its owner impacts the person’s emotional health by: Ī Boosting self-confidence and self-esteem. Ī Promoting communication between residents and neighbors. Ī Helping people cope with illness, loss, and depression. Ī Reducing stress levels. Ī Helping to meet new friends. Ī Providing a source of touch and affiliation. Ī Satisfying our need for physical contact and touching. Amazingly, this actually works on a hormonal level as well as an emotional one. Researchers at the University of Missouri-Columbia suggest the hormonal changes that occur when humans and dogs interact could help people cope with depression and some stress-related disorders. Just petting your dog for a few minutes prompts the release of a number of “feel good” hormones in humans, such as serotonin, prolactin, and oxytocin. Furry Friends Companion pets can help fill relationship voids