How loneliness affects the brain

Researchers at the Neumayer III polar station in Antarctica discovered that social isolation can significantly impact the brain. After 14 months in isolation, the expeditioners showed a decrease in the volume of their prefrontal cortex and lower levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor. These changes persisted even after returning from their mission.

Loneliness is a complex emotion that's not solely due to the lack of social interactions or fear of them. When we're lonely, we tend to perceive others as unreliable and unfriendly, which makes us avoid potential connections. A significant portion of people across the globe experience feelings of loneliness, which can lead to serious health issues, including high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, and dementia.

It's important to note that treating loneliness isn't as simple as encouraging people to socialize more. Studies show that loneliness alters our perception, making us focus more on negative social cues and mistrust others. This creates a downward spiral that further reinforces feelings of isolation.

Interestingly, the brain's "loneliness hotspot" lies within the default network, which is active when our minds are at rest. This network is involved in many of our unique human abilities, such as language and understanding others' intentions. Chronically lonely people have larger and more strongly connected regions within the default network.

The late neuroscientist John Cacioppo proposed that loneliness is an evolved adaptation, much like hunger, signaling a need for connection. Research supports this idea, showing similar brain activation patterns when experiencing hunger and loneliness. This highlights our fundamental need to connect with others.

Recent studies also support the social brain hypothesis, which suggests that an active social life is linked to bigger brains. Experiences and social environments can influence the brain's structure, but genetic factors also play a role in loneliness. Cognitive therapies have been shown to be effective in reducing loneliness by targeting behaviors and thought patterns that hinder social connections. Other potential interventions include promoting trust, synchrony, and even exploring chemical therapies.

While tackling chronic loneliness is important, it's worth remembering that occasional feelings of solitude are a natural part of the human experience. Just like stress, loneliness can serve a purpose, but it becomes problematic when it turns chronic.