New Public Awareness Campaign Addresses Need for Social Connection 'Start a Conversation' to end loneliness, improve someone's mental and physical health PHOENIX — The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) has launched a public awareness campaign highlighting the positive effect of social connection on physical and mental health. The campaign, Start a Conversation, includes broadcast advertisements, social media posts, and a website – azdhs.gov/StartAConversation – with resources for individuals, employers, and healthcare providers to help people affected by a lack of social connection. The need for this help is especially acute because of the isolation many have experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. "Helping people recognize the warning signs about a lack of social connection is a critical first step in encouraging them to seek help," said ADHS Director Dr. Cara Christ. "We know that everyone feels lonely at times, but when these feelings of loneliness and lack of social connection are a constant in your life, it may be a symptom of an underlying health concern such as depression." The broadcast and social media ads show people of all ages experiencing social isolation and how starting a conversation can help break those feelings of loneliness. Several studies have linked a lack of social connection to cardiovascular disease, diminished sleep quality, increased inflammation, decreased viral immunity, and accelerated cognitive decline. Loneliness increases the risk of depression, poor adherence to medication and treatment, and premature death. One study found that long-term loneliness and a lack of social connection can be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. While public health research has looked at the effects of loneliness and lack of social connection for some time, the isolation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has had clear effects, especially on Arizonans who may have already been experiencing a lack of social connection. This challenge can affect anyone no matter their age, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. "I encourage everyone to visit our new website and learn about the warning signs and to take steps to address the issue," Dr. Christ said. "In many cases it can be as simple as starting a conversation with your family, a friend, or your healthcare provider." For more information, please visit azhealth.gov/StartAConversation. The campaign is funded by a federal grant from the Arizona Health Cost Care Containment System. # # # | 
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