Social Isolation Can Harm Physical and Mental Health, Says University of Waterloo Professor

Social isolation can have serious impacts on physical and mental health, according to a University of Waterloo expert, who says building everyday social connections is one of the most effective ways to support overall well-being.

Troy Glover, a professor and director of the Healthy Communities Research Network at the University of Waterloo, says research consistently shows that strong social relationships help people stay healthier and recover better from illness. He notes that individuals who experience frequent loneliness are more likely to become sick and often have poorer recovery outcomes.

Glover explains that “social fitness” — regular interaction with others — is just as important as physical exercise. Simple actions, such as greeting neighbours, chatting with coworkers, or having brief conversations with service workers, can strengthen community connections and reduce feelings of isolation.

While technology and smartphones can help people stay connected, Glover cautions that excessive phone use can also limit spontaneous interactions with others, which play an important role in social health. He emphasizes that even small, face-to-face interactions contribute to a sense of belonging within a community.

The issue is reflected in recent Statistics Canada data, which found that more than one in ten Canadians aged 15 and older report often or always feeling lonely. In Ontario, women reported higher levels of loneliness than men, with a significant number saying they sometimes feel isolated.

Glover acknowledges that solitude can be comforting for some people, but warns that prolonged isolation — particularly when paired with heavy technology use — can intensify loneliness. He encourages people to reach out, noting that many fear negative responses but often experience positive and meaningful connections instead.

Source: CityNews Kitchener