LONELINESS

video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n3Xv_g3g-mA

What does loneliness mean for you? Have you ever felt a little/really lonely?

Introductory part

Discuss these questions with a partner then watch the video to find the answers:

1) In the UK …% of 18-34 year olds say they often feel lonely. In the US …% of the entire
population feel lonely regularly.
2) Being lonely and being alone – are these the same? (Why? Why not?)
3) Do social skills matter when it comes to social connections?

Part 1

Why was our feeling of loneliness so important in prehistoric times?

Try to explain these expressions with your partner:

care for offspring, natural selection, sustain social bonds, crucial, threat, social vibe, be excluded,
isolation

Part 2

How has our social network changed throughout history?

How many close friends do people have in general nowadays?
What are the 5 most common threats to maintaining a close relationship with your friends?

Part 3

How does chronic loneliness affect our body?

Which is more deadly? Obesity, smoking or loneliness?
Why is loneliness self-sustaining?

Try to explain these expressions with your partner:

a chronic illness, hostility, something is inflicted on you, defensive behaviour, to be receptive towards
social signals, neutral, to assume the worst

Part 4

What can we do about this vicious circle in general?

Any practical tips how to start this today?