It is unlikely that B.C.’s government, despite its progressive attitudes, will follow Britain’s lead and name a “minister for loneliness.”
However, even out here on the generally contented edge of Canada, we have to wonder how the world got to the stage that a major developed country saw a need for government to step in to deal with loneliness. Is it that big a problem? Isn’t it a problem people can fix themselves?
Britain’s answers to those questions were: “Yes,” and “Apparently not.” So Prime Minister Theresa May will have one of her ministers co-ordinate policies to fight loneliness.
According to surveys in the U.K., more than nine million Britons feel lonely often or always. One poll suggested that 200,000 people over age 65 had not talked to family or friends in more than a month.
Other research suggests that 20 per cent of Canadian adults and 40 per cent of Americans over 45 experience loneliness.
Among the motivations for May’s decision were arguments that loneliness is taking a toll on the health-care system. It is linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, chronic inflammation and dementia.
While some might question the connection with physical health, few would question that widespread loneliness is a problem for a society.
While we don’t need a minister of the Crown to take charge of loneliness, we would do well to recognize it in ourselves, our families and our neighbours — and do what we can to strengthen those essential bonds.
