Expert insight: Meaningful social interactions are the only ’cure’ for loneliness

'Tis the season for friends and family, which could be crucial for combatting loneliness, but one Western researcher says we should strive to maintain social connections at all times of the year. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), social isolation and loneliness is becoming an increasing health concern around the globe. The WHO estimates one in four older people experience social isolation and between five and 15 per cent of adolescents experience loneliness. Julie Aitken Schermer is a jointly appointed professor in the DAN department of management and organizational studies, and psychology. Among her research interests is loneliness and its impact on people. Western News: When we talk about loneliness, what do we mean? Julie Aitken Schermer: Loneliness is a dissatisfaction with personal social connections. Individuals need to belong and matter to others and loneliness reflects the state of not having those connections.