First published 2020
Dr. Vivek H. Murthy argues that loneliness has become a public health emergency in America. Drawing from his experience as the nation's 19th Surgeon General, he presents evidence that isolation contributes to addiction, violence, depression, and anxiety while affecting how children learn and adults work. Murthy shares personal stories, including his own school struggles with loneliness and his uncle's tragic death from isolation. He reveals how loneliness transcends political and demographic divides, resonating equally with conservative and liberal lawmakers, young and old citizens, urban and rural communities. The book offers four practical strategies: spend fifteen minutes daily with loved ones, give others your complete attention, embrace solitude through meditation or time outdoors, and serve others through simple acts of kindness. Murthy demonstrates that humans evolved for connection and community, making the case that our natural desire to bond with others holds the key to healing our divided society.
Genres: psychology, sociology, non-fiction, health
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: personal-story, social-commentary
352 pages · Hardcover · Harper