Prevention

3.4.5 Meaning purpose and connection

The last couple of decades have witnessed significant shifts in how individuals connect, find meaning and engage with society with a marked increase in solitary living and social isolation, fuelled by declining civic participation, the expansion of the gig economy, and the widespread adoption of remote work (Holt-Lunstad et al., 2015; Cacioppo & Cacioppo, 2018). These trends have eroded traditional structures of social support and collective identity, leading to a weakening of shared purpose and community involvement across the globe (Luhmann & Hawkley, 2016).

The repercussions of this shift are profound for mental health. Both actual and perceived social isolation are associated with a substantially increased risk of mortality—up to 30% higher in the United States—matching or exceeding the risks posed by unhealthy behaviours such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption (Holt-Lunstad et al., 2015; Cacioppo & Cacioppo, 2018).

Furthermore, individuals experiencing loneliness are more likely to suffer from depression and suicidal ideation, highlighting the critical importance of social bonds and meaning for psychological wellbeing (Smith et al., 2020).

Individuals can take proactive steps to reinforce their social bonds and sense of purpose. Regularly scheduling social commitments, such as participating in walking groups or joining team sports, not only boosts physical health but also nurtures vital social ties (Schnohr et al., 2018). Incorporating daily “micro-acts” of purpose—small, intentional actions that contribute meaningfully to the lives of others—has been shown to enhance overall wellbeing and foster a sense of belonging (Smith et al., 2020). These strategies mirror broader research indicating that strong social connections and purposeful living are protective factors against loneliness and its associated health risks (Holt-Lunstad et al., 2015; Cacioppo & Cacioppo, 2018).

Communities and organisations play a crucial role in combating isolation, for example by developing interventions that foster intergenerational relationships and meaningful engagement. Programmes pairing younger and older generations—such as intergenerational housing or mentorship schemes—help bridge social divides and provide mutual support (Homeshare UK, 2020). A Danish initiative, The Human Library, pairs volunteers – to share their personal stories and experiences with “readers” through open, respectful dialogue, and aims to foster greater understanding and connection between individuals from diverse backgrounds (Abergel, 2017).

In the workplace, initiatives focused on purpose, like mentorship and skill-sharing, create environments where employees can connect and thrive (VanderWeele, 2017).

Additionally, the emergence of “third spaces” such as community gardens and maker spaces offers inclusive settings for people to gather, collaborate, and build lasting relationships.

Technology can also help to address social isolation. For example, the app IRL (In Real Life) encourages users to organise and attend in-person events, fostering genuine social connections and reducing reliance on virtual interactions. Similarly, Meetup has long provided a platform for individuals to find and join local groups based on shared interests, effectively promoting community engagement and face-to-face interaction (Meetup, 2022). In Japan, carebots—socially assistive robots—are increasingly utilised to provide companionship and emotional support for older adults. Technological initiatives are not limited to event apps. Projects such as “Nextdoor” connect neighbours within local communities, enabling residents to share information, organise gatherings, and offer support to one another (Nextdoor, 2021).