During the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy seemed to be overshadowed by other prominent public health officials, such as Dr. Anthony Fauci and Dr. Ashish Jha. However, as the pandemic subsided, Murthy became more vocal about the concerns he expressed in his book, “Together: The Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely World.” Published during lockdown, the book addresses the psychological challenges caused by the pandemic in a post-pandemic world.
In recent weeks, Murthy has issued two advisories focusing on the cultural isolation fostered by increased internet reliance. He emphasizes that loneliness is more than just a bad feeling – it has serious health consequences. The lack of social connection makes Americans “angry, sick, and alone.” Economic, social, and pandemic-related disruptions have only worsened this crisis.
Murthy calls for policymakers, business leaders, and health care professionals to prioritize a “culture of connection” and tackle chronic solitude as a disease. However, it remains uncertain whether they will take action.
In another advisory, Murthy discusses the negative impact of social media on youth mental health. He highlights the link between social media use and low self-esteem, anxiety, and depressive disorders in young adults. The pandemic accelerated the trend of digital existence, with millions of children attending school online. Murthy argues that we have not fully considered the harms of this digital reliance and that a comprehensive policy solution is difficult to achieve.
Despite the numerous stressors in Americans’ lives, Murthy suggests that helping others through volunteerism can improve mental well-being and contribute to a better world.
Overall, Murthy’s advisories address pressing issues regarding loneliness, isolation, and the consequences of digital existence. They call for action from various sectors to create a culture of connection, prioritize mental health, and address the negative impact of social media.
