Loneliness is as bad for you as smoking, research shows. But the stigma stops people getting help
The World Health Organization has declared loneliness a global health threat — as bad for your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
![Loneliness is as bad for you as smoking, research shows. But the stigma stops people getting help](https://i.cbc.ca/1.5369492.1700590676!/fileImage/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/16x9_620/shutterstock-lonely-1096235138.jpg)
![A solitary woman looks out outside. A solitary woman stands at an open door and looks out outside.](https://i.cbc.ca/1.5369492.1700590676!/fileImage/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/16x9_620/shutterstock-lonely-1096235138.jpg)
The World Health Organization has declared loneliness a global health threat — as bad for your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.