Feeling Lonely? You're Not Alone
Services and Supports Are Available
It’s not just a feeling: Loneliness is a real holistic health issue. But, many services and supports are available to help you and your loved ones connect and thrive.
How Loneliness Affects Your Overall Health
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the physical health consequences of poor or insufficient social connection include:
- A 29% increased risk of heart disease
- A 32% increased risk of stroke
- A 50% increased risk of developing dementia for older adults
- A more than 60% increased risk of premature death
Who Is Impacted
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates about one in three adults report feeling lonely, and about one in four adults report not having social and emotional support. Everyone—at any age—is at risk for loneliness, but some people and groups are at higher risk.
Yet loneliness has a cure: Connections. Here are some of the many resources available to help you and those you love connect and thrive.
Get connected:
- California Volunteers—Search by your ZIP code for ways to connect with your community by volunteering with local organizations, or connect with people literally right next door via California Volunteers’ Neighbor to Neighbor program.
Get assistance:
- Health plans—California health insurance plans are required by law to provide behavioral-health services, and offer many resources specifically designed to support your behavioral well-being, often at low or no cost. Contact your health provider directly for available resources. If you don’t currently have health insurance, public agencies—such as your county behavioral-health office—can guide you in in finding available services.
- Employee assistance programs—Many employers include employee assistance programs as part of their job benefits. These programs offer a variety of services, including no-cost confidential counseling for employees. Check with your human resources office for more information.
- California Department of Aging—The department and its local partner agencies offer a wide range of programs and resources for seniors and their caregivers.
Our Commitment to Strengthening Services and Supports
UC Davis Human Services is committed to empowering California’s Adult Protective Services (APS) professionals through targeted training and support. Our programs strengthen the workforce, support continuous quality improvement and equip APS teams to meet the complex needs of elders and dependent adults.
Get support:
- CalHOPE—Californians of all ages can call CalHOPE at (833) 317-HOPE (4673) or live chat via their website to be connected to services and supports.
- Brightlife Kids—A CalHOPE program for young Californians aged 0 to 12, Brightlife Kids provides many free resources. Call (888) 275-5357 for more information.
- Friendship Line California—Especially for seniors, Friendship Line California is a free crisis intervention hotline and a warmline for non-emergency emotional support calls. Call toll-free (888) 670-1360.
Important Reminder
Remember: If you feel you or someone you love is experiencing a behavioral-health crisis, call 988 anytime to reach the 988 Lifeline.