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Column by Rob Jones, director of Integrated Marketing Communications, University of Missouri Extension; Kale Monk, state couple and family well-being specialist, MU Extension; Naomi Meinertz, state specialist in aging, MU Extension; Chiquita Chanay, education director, Community Health Engagement and Outreach, MU Extension.
Across Missouri, many people are facing a problem that hides in plain sight.
That problem is loneliness.
It affects people in every part of the state, especially in rural communities. For some, it comes from long distances between neighbors or fewer chances to gather. For others, it shows up in quieter ways, like feeling disconnected even when surrounded by people.
Farmers, caregivers, older adults and young adults all experience loneliness in different ways. About one in three adults report feeling lonely, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A 2023 Surgeon General report indicated that the health impact of chronic loneliness is comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
This public health issue is shaping how long and how well people live.
How loneliness affects health
Loneliness affects the body and the mind.
People who feel lonely are more likely to have high blood pressure, more inflammation and weaker immune systems. Since healing takes more time, they are more likely to stay in the hospital longer and return for care after treatment.
The effects go beyond physical health. Loneliness is linked to depression, anxiety and thoughts of self-harm. It is also tied to memory loss and cognitive decline as people age.
Over time, loneliness can change behavior. People who feel disconnected may stop doing things that support their health. They may withdraw from others, which makes the problem worse.
A widespread problem
Loneliness can affect anyone. Caregivers may feel alone as they focus on caring for others. Older adults may lose friends over time. Young adults, especially during life changes, report some of the highest levels of loneliness.
It is also shaped by the conditions people live in. Distance can limit connection, especially in rural areas. Work schedules and other factors like moving away from one’s home community make it hard for people to stay in touch.
There are personal barriers as well. Some people hesitate to reach out because they worry about rejection or feel like they will not connect with others. These thoughts can hold people back even when opportunities exist.
The reasons vary, but the outcome is the same. Loneliness is a shared challenge across Missouri.
Connection can help
The good news is that connection can make a big difference.
Bringing people together is a strong first step. Supportive relationships help people feel seen and valued. Learning how to listen, share and build trust strengthens those relationships over time.
It also helps to address the fears and doubts that keep people from reaching out.
Research from Brigham Young University shows that when people feel connected, their health tends to improve.
MU Extension’s role
This is where University of Missouri Extension plays an important role.
MU Extension offers group classes that bring people together around shared goals. Programs like Stay Strong, Stay Healthy and Powerful Tools for Caregivers create space for people to meet, talk and build relationships. Many participants stay connected after the programs end.
MU Extension also supports connection through initiatives like the Engaged Neighbor Program, which encourages people to build stronger relationships with those around them and take simple steps to support one another in their communities.
Volunteer opportunities like Extension Master Gardener, Missouri Master Naturalist and Missouri 4-H give people a chance to work together, learn new skills and be part of something larger than themselves.
Some programs focus on specific communities. Heroes to Hives helps veterans build connections and find purpose after their service. Missouri AgrAbility supports farmers with disabilities and their families so they can continue working and stay connected to their communities.
Specialists also work directly with farmers across Missouri, offering resources and support to help reduce stress and build stronger connections.
These efforts help people feel connected, supported and part of their communities.
The role of communities
Still, all of us—community members, local leaders, business leaders, educational institutions—play a role in creating experiences where people feel welcome and connected.
Places to be active, local events and shared spaces give people a chance to meet. Programs that bring people together around shared interests help build relationships over time.
A path forward
Loneliness is a serious challenge, but it can be addressed. When people build strong connections, they become healthier, more resilient and more engaged. When they feel like they belong, they are more likely to stay involved, help others and support their communities.
Improving health in Missouri may start with helping people feel seen, supported and connected to one another.