Utah is ranked in the top 5 loneliness state in the country. Here's a look at why that is a public health concern for adults and teens.

Utah

Utah has been identified as one of the top five loneliest states in the United States, according to U.S. Census data. Despite its reputation as a highly social state, many Utah residents report a lack of meaningful connections. The Utah Department of Health and Human Services has tracked increasing rates of loneliness, particularly among youth, the elderly, and college-aged individuals. Experts attribute this trend in part to changes in social interaction patterns following the pandemic, with many people missing everyday micro-interactions. Health officials recommend small steps, such as spending time in public spaces and engaging in community activities, to help alleviate feelings of loneliness. Resources and support are available through the Utah Department of Health and Human Services.

Feeling alone in Utah: A public health concern for adults and teens

Good morning. Utah was ranked top five loneliest states in the country, according to U.S. Census data. I spoke with mental health experts about why that is and how you can feel more connected. It's interesting to note that in that same census data, Utah is actually one of the highest for being a social state. It may be one of the most social states in the country, but when it comes to feeling connected, Utahns say something's missing. The Utah Department of Health and Human Services has tracked loneliness through surveys for years. In 2023, one in four Utah youth said they often felt like people were around them, but not truly with them. We are now seeing loneliness as a concept that's by itself, it's a standalone concept. It's not even associated with depression in lots of cases. And it's become very concerning because it's a very difficult symptom for people to deal with. Experts say the pandemic changed how we interact, and many of us haven't bounced back. I really trace a lot of the loneliness that we feel to this lack of, you know, micro interactions we have with people at work or out at the stores. Census data shows Utah's adult loneliness rate has more than tripled since 2019. The rates of loneliness are the highest amongst the elderly and, interestingly enough, college age people. That is the part that is shocking. While some rural areas may appear more isolated, state health officials say loneliness spans across the map. Youth and adults, they're feeling like they have people around them, they just don't have those closer connections, and that's something that we're worried about. So, what helps? Experts say connection starts with small choices. Go to a coffee shop, maybe instead of ordering takeout, go to a restaurant and have a dinner there even by yourself. Being amongst other people and having those interactions helps to really treat some of that loneliness. In Salt Lake City, Beehive Sport and Social Club is helping people reconnect through play. That next best friend or that potential partner in life could be just around the corner. If you or someone you know is struggling with loneliness, you can find resources and support through the Utah Department of Health and Human Services. In Salt Lake City, Mai Constantino, Fox 13 News, Utah.

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