A new study just confirmed a long running theory of mine that that I developed after years of observing trends that I’ve seen in my patients over many years. As a naturopathic physician, I am grateful for the ability to connect with my patients in a way that goes beyond just a superficial interaction. In addition to treating a patient’s problem, I also try to understand the person in whom that problem resides. This type of relationship often gives me insight into the emotional states that my patients experience. Over many years of clinical practice, it has become clear that loneliness or social isolation is one of the most dangerous. Watch this clip and see what the science says about loneliness.

-Dr. Joshua Levitt