#Loneliness

A trending social-media question about whether parents have fewer friends than non-parents has sparked a broad discussion and new insights into how adulthood and parenthood change social circles. Research and expert commentary suggest that friendships aren’t erased by children; instead, their dynamics, quality, and expectations shift. The conversation resonates with many Thai families as urban living and changing lifestyles challenge traditional support networks.

The spark came from a social media post by a young creator who asked why parents seem less socially active outside work and childcare. The ensuing comments reveal a common pattern: parenting brings fatigue and new responsibilities, often making spontaneous socializing harder. Yet many participants highlight that meaningful connections can endure when friends adapt and show understanding.

In a groundbreaking study published in Epidemiology and Psychiatric Sciences, researchers have found that individuals who experience social disconnectedness face significantly higher risks of various medical conditions. This study, conducted by Lisbeth Mølgaard Laustsen and colleagues, reveals that loneliness, social isolation, and lack of social support—the three core measures of social disconnectedness—are linked to an increase in illnesses, impacting almost all major health categories (source).

This research is critical for Thai readers who can draw parallels with societal changes in Thailand, where urbanization often leads to reduced family time and a potential for increased social isolation. The study, utilizing data from the Danish National Health Survey, covered 162,604 participants and assessed social connections using tools like the Three-Item Loneliness Scale. The findings indicate that lonely individuals were at greater risk across 11 medical conditions, notably mental disorders and dementia, with loneliness being more influential than social isolation or low social support.

A large study published in Epidemiology and Psychiatric Sciences shows that people who feel socially disconnected face higher risks for many illnesses. The research, led by Lisbeth Mølgaard Laustsen and colleagues, highlights three measures of social disconnection: loneliness, social isolation, and lack of social support. Together, they are linked to more health problems across multiple categories.

For Thai audiences, the findings resonate with evolving urban lifestyles in Thailand, where busier cities can reduce time with family and neighbors. The Danish National Health Survey, which involved more than 162,000 participants, measured social connections with familiar tools like the Three-Item Loneliness Scale. Results indicate that loneliness raises the risk for 11 medical conditions, with mental disorders and dementia showing particularly strong links. Interestingly, loneliness appeared to be a stronger predictor than social isolation or low social support.

A new Danish study finds that social disconnection—loneliness, social isolation, and low perceived support—may significantly raise the risk of multiple illnesses. The research, published in Epidemiology and Psychiatric Sciences, shows that individuals who feel detached from others face higher incidence across 11 medical categories, with mental disorders being the most affected.

The findings carry global relevance, including in Thailand, where family and community bonds are central but facing modernization. Thai culture traditionally centers on collective living and mutual support. As urbanization and busy lifestyles intensify, more people may experience loneliness, a factor that could influence health outcomes.

A groundbreaking study from Denmark suggests that loneliness and social isolation might significantly elevate the risk of various medical conditions, highlighting an often-overlooked factor in public health. Published in Epidemiology and Psychiatric Sciences, this research found that individuals experiencing social disconnection faced higher risks across 11 different categories of illnesses, with mental disorders being the most prevalent.

The profound implications of this study resonate worldwide, including in Thailand, where the dynamics of family and community are pivotal yet increasingly strained by societal shifts. Traditionally, Thai culture emphasizes collective living, with family units offering significant support. However, urban migration and lifestyle changes are leading more people into loneliness—a factor now confirmed to impact health negatively.