We all feel lonely from time to time. But for some people, there’s nothing “occasional” about it. In the U.S., over a third of Americans over 45 report feeling lonely on a regular basis.
And with advances in technology that enable us to work, shop, and entertain ourselves without leaving the comfort of our homes, we’re all relying less and less on human interaction.
But the effects of this social isolation can be downright deadly. Research shows:
Loneliness, living alone, and poor social connections are as bad for your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
Loneliness is worse for you than obesity.
Lonely people are more likely to suffer from dementia, heart disease, and depression.
Loneliness can increase risk of death by 29 percent.
These disastrous effects on people’s well-being are so profound that the British government now recognizes chronic loneliness as a public health epidemic.
In fact, they’re rolling out a brand new initiative called “Social Prescribing” as part of the country’s strategy to curb the loneliness epidemic. It involves doctors encouraging patients to get involved with community-based activities involving art, nature, or hobbies—like visiting museums, spending time in nature/green spaces, or learning an instrument.
I’ve always hoped I’d see the day when doctors would prescribe music as part of their treatment plans. So I’m thrilled to see “Social Prescribing” taking shape in the U.K.
Of course, you might be wondering how music can help. Well, let’s take a look at some science…
Create music, make friends
In a 2008 study published in Musical Development and Learning, researchers suggest that music is a crucial tool for the elderly to combat loneliness (as well as other social, mental, and emotional challenges that come with growing older).
One of the most effective methods the looked at for boosting mood and combatting loneliness was singing in a choir.
Another 2017 study found that depressed patients who tried music therapy in a group setting had significantly better results than those who tried solo music interventions.
And I can certainly vouch for the ability of music to combat loneliness.
In my work as a music educator over the past 20 years, I’ve taught hand drumming to thousands of people. And I can’t begin to tell you how many friendships I’ve watched blossom as a result of people coming to a workshop and connecting (not to mention three marriages)!
Making music with others—even simple, rhythmic music, like drumming—can bring people together in a completely unique way. It invites you to listen to one another and work together to sound the best you collectively can. Plus, it’s just fun!
And remember, you don’t have to be a trained musician to reap all the advantages of making music with other people. The benefits are there for the taking, regardless of your skill level.
If you’d like to experience it for yourself, look for beginner-friendly drum circles in your area.
Try looking online first. I highly recommend searching the term “drum circle” on Meetup, Facebook, or Eventbrite. If the event doesn’t indicate it it’s for beginners or if they provide drums, contact the organizer. (Many drum circle organizers have plenty of extra drums for you to use!)
You can also stay tuned to my Facebook events page. I facilitate drum workshops all over the country, educating those on how they can use the power of rhythm and sound to better their overall wellness. And who knows—perhaps you’ll also make some lifelong friends!
P.S. – During the current COVID-19 crisis, connecting with others is harder than ever. That’s why I’d like to you invite you to The Inner Sound Method.
I recently launched this highly personalized program, where you’ll receive weekly guided video tutorials from me, teaching you how to improve your health and life with sound. In them, I give you the key tools and exercises you need to start your own sound healing routine… and most importantly, stick with it!
The more you practice, the more powerful your health benefits will be.
My tutorials are fun and easy to follow. It’s kind of like having your own private coach! And all you need are about 10 to 15 minutes each day.
Subscribe to my monthly newsletter, Donovan Sound Health. Visit our website, donovanhealth.com, to view our newest products and to check out our special offers. SOURCES: Solly, M. (2018). British Doctors May Soon Prescribe Art, Music, Dance, Singing Lessons. Smithsonian.com. Retrieved from: smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/british-doctors-may-soon-prescribe-art-music-dance-singing-lessons-180970750/ Department for Digital, Culture, Media, and Sport. (2018). A connected society: A strategy for tackling loneliness—laying the foundations for change. Retrieved from: assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/750909/6.4882_DCMS_Loneliness_Strategy_web_Update.pdf The facts on loneliness. CampaigntoEndLoneliness.com. Retrieved from: campaigntoendloneliness.org/the-facts-on-loneliness/ DiJulio, B. and Hamel, L. (2018). Loneliness and Social Isolation in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Japan: An International Survey. Kaiser Family Foundation. Retrieved from: kff.org/report-section/loneliness-and-social-isolation-in-the-united-states-the-united-kingdom-and-japan-an-international-survey-introduction/ Gembris, H. (2008). Musical Activities in the Third Age: An Empirical Study With Amateur Musicians. Musical Development and Learning. Pp.: 103-108. Retrieved from: researchgate.net/publication/242511320_Musical_Activities_in_the_Third_Age_An_Empirical_Study_With_Amateur_Musicians John, T., (2018). How the World’s First Loneliness Minister Will Tackle ‘the Sad Reality of Modern Life’.” Time.com. Retrieved from: time.com/5248016/tracey-crouch-uk-loneliness-minister/ The material provided on this site is for educational purposes only and any recommendations are not intended to replace the advice of your physician. You are encouraged to seek advice from a competent medical professional regarding the applicability of any recommendations with regard to your symptoms or condition.
