iyarn Talks Loneliness
Loneliness is a major health and social policy issue in Australia. Did you know:
- 7% of Australians feel lonely all the time?
- 16% feel lonely quite often?
- 32% feel lonely sometimes?
iyarn got to raise the bar for mental health alongside @livin.org. Get around your mates, cheer them on and show them support!
A Minister and Strategy to Fight Loneliness
In 2018, the UK appointed a Minister for Loneliness to tackle the increasing feelings of isolation felt across the country.
Whilst this might sound like a department out of Harry Potter, we can assure you this department lives in the real world. The UK government recently announced it’s first Loneliness Strategy.
The ministerial appointment originally sought to carry on the work of murdered lawmaker Jo Cox, who established the Commission on Loneliness. On October 15 last year, UK Prime Minister Theresa May annouced that “loneliness is one of the greatest public health challenges of our time” ahead of launching the Lonliness Strategy. The strategy will enable all GPs to refer patients experiencing loneliness to community activities and voluntary services. This is called social prescribing.”
The strategy will also fund increased community spaces, expanded charity and community activities, and a partnership with Royal Mail to allow postal workers to check up on isolated residents as part of their rounds.
What is Australia’s Approach to Loneliness?
What do you think? Should we implement some of these strategies in Australia?
Take Steps to Fight Loneliness
As the year kicks off, it’s the perfect time to reach out to your circle, check-in on your loved ones, or plan a gathering, and combat any lingering lonliness. Log in to app.iyarn.com to keep connected with your loved ones.
Especially with everything going on in Australia right now, it’s important to make the most out of time together with the people you care about.
If you think someone you know might be a little lonely over this period, make sure you’re; finding a quite place to check-in, ask questions, hold space, allowing them to speak in their own time, and follow up in a few days.
Loneliness at work is also a major issue! Check out our longer piece on loneliness in the workplace over here, including tips for your workplace.
