Alone Together: The Mental Health Impact of Loneliness Across Life Stages

Brought to you by the Virginia Mental Health Counselors Association

About the Event:
In May 2023, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy declared a loneliness epidemic and issued a comprehensive advisory. The impact of this issue continues to be profound and far-reaching, even almost three years later. This presentation will underscore the critical findings from the advisory. It will examine research and statistics pertaining to this public health crisis, exploring its impact across age groups. The discussion will delve into the significant impact of loneliness on the mental and physical health of individuals, with particular attention to adolescents and young adults, who are among the most affected. Attendees will gain insight into identifying signs of loneliness and disconnection through assessment and age-specific factors. Attendees will be equipped with practical strategies to promote meaningful social connection and well-being across all stages of life.



Learning Objectives
Summarize key findings and recommendations from the U.S. Surgeon General’s Loneliness Epidemic advisory.
Conceptualize loneliness within a biopsychosocial framework
Analyze relevant research, trends, and statistics on loneliness across different life stages
Evaluate the role of social media in contributing to or alleviating loneliness
Select and apply validated assessment tools to screen for loneliness and social isolation
Implement practical, evidence-informed strategies to help clients build and sustain meaningful social connectionsUnderstand the importance of defense recognition and reduction as a means to clinical improvement


About the Presenter
Mary Rogers Kirby is a licensed professional counselor. She is a therapist/owner at Creating Solutions, a virtual practice in Virginia. She has been in the field for over 20 years in public and private settings, working with adolescents and adults. She specializes in anxiety, OCD and trauma.