Loneliness and social isolation

Loneliness is the feeling of being emotionally disconnected or craving social interaction, even if others are nearby. It’s a subjective experience that can occur whether or not someone is physically alone. Social isolation, on the other hand, is an objective state where a person has little contact or limited interaction with others. While social isolation can lead to loneliness, they are not the same; a person can be isolated without feeling lonely, and vice versa. Both can negatively impact mental and physical health, emphasizing the importance of meaningful social connections for overall well-being.