Loneliness has become “a public health epidemic” in Northern Ireland, a doctors’ group has said. They says loneliness is as bad for health outcomes as obesity. LossDr Grainne Doran, chair of the college, says loneliness has become “a public health epidemic” and factors like demographic changes and the loss of the nuclear family have caused an increase in loneliness across the age spectrum. “That’s why we want to see a dedicated professional for every GP surgery — a community navigator,” she said. “This will support patients, community navigators and carers to ensure that people are matched to the best schemes for their needs.”

Source: The Irish Times May 23, 2018 14:37 UTC