Before getting into the specifics，we need to have a clear understanding of what loneliness is，and what it isn't：Loneliness is defined subjectively，not objectively.In other words，what matters is not how many friends you have or how many people you have around you on a daily basis.Rather，what matters is whether you feel emotionally or socially disconnected from others.Indeed，many people who are married and live with family members report feeling significant loneliness，because they feel emotionally disconnected from their partners and loved ones.

The most tragic and compelling aspect of the loneliness epidemic is how preventable it is.The problem is a fundamental lack of awareness，both for lonely people and for those around them.It isn't easy to approach a friend or loved one and express concerns about their smoking habits or their obesity，yet many of us do so regardless.But how many of us have approached a friend or loved one to discuss our concerns about their loneliness ?

Public dialogues about the dangers of smoking and of obesity have gone on for decades.People who smoke and those who struggle with obesity are aware that their health and longevity are at risk.But lonely people are largely unaware of the risks they face，as are their friends and loved ones.Consider that when a loved one smokes，there is nothing we can do to help them other than urge them to change their habits and lifestyle.But when it comes to loneliness，we can actually be the solution：We can reach out，call，visit，and include them in activities and get-togethers，We can initiate deeper，more meaningful conversations and make them feel seen and loved.

Solutions should come from within our neighborhoods and communities as well.Local municipalities and neighborhood associations could organize activities for retired persons.Schools can urge students to visit with homebound people or those with limited mobility.The options for interventions are numerous.