Synopsis: Loneliness impacts employee health and organizational costs, and Modern Health offers evidence-based strategies, such as fostering connection and leveraging mental health resources, to reduce healthcare expenses and improve engagement.

As health care costs rise—projected to reach their highest levels in over a decade—an often-overlooked driver deserves attention: loneliness. Research shows loneliness increases the risk of heart disease by 29% and stroke by 32%, with health impacts comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. For organizations, the cost of disconnection manifests in higher claims, reduced productivity, and elevated turnover.

A recent study on the impact of digital mental health services revealed that participants engaging with these tools experienced significant decreases in anxiety (37%) and depression (39%), alongside notable reductions in loneliness. Dr. Mary Odafe, Licensed Clinical Psychologist at Modern Health, explains, “Loneliness isn’t just an emotional struggle; it’s a public health crisis affecting how employees engage, collaborate, and contribute.”

How Leaders Can Foster Connection in the Workplace:

• Assess Needs: Use pulse surveys to identify levels of loneliness and areas for targeted intervention.
• Cultivate Community: Support employee resource groups and team-building initiatives to create spaces for authentic connection.
• Leverage Technology: Provide access to flexible mental health resources like therapy, coaching, and self-guided tools to meet employees where they are.
• Promote Inclusivity: Train leaders to recognize signs of loneliness and foster inclusive, supportive team environments.

Taking these steps can reduce health care costs and foster a workplace where employees feel valued and engaged.

Learn More: Watch this on-demand webinar featuring Modern Health experts to explore evidence-driven strategies for driving workplace connectedness here.