A growing body of compelling evidence suggests that there is an epidemic of loneliness and social isolation in the United States with significant negative physical and mental health effects. This epidemic is proven to be at the root of many maladies, ranging from suicide, drug addiction, public violence, mood disorders, physical illness, and others. According to a recent Cigna Health study, the effect of loneliness on the human body matches that of obesity, alcohol abuse or smoking 15 cigarettes a day, increasing the risk of an early death by nearly 30 percent.

Since 2019, the Alleghany Highlands Arts Council has partnered with Alleghany Highlands Public Schools, Alleghany Highlands Community Services Board, League of Older Americans, YMCA of the Alleghany Highlands, and other community leaders to develop strategies for addressing this issue.

Genres like songwriting, playwriting, and dance have fostered a spirit of positive self-expression among students and community members who participate each year. This season, we will explore civil discourse as a way to reduce the dissent and discord currently affecting our world.

To follow up on the social-emotional element of the work, we wish to support and expand the local peer contact team being assembled to serve as a resource for those experiencing loneliness issues. Volunteers identified during the workshops will receive training in Mental Health First Aid through community mental health services. They will learn warning signs and avenues of referral for suicide prevention or planned public violence intervention, among other issues, or simply serve as a human connection for someone in need.

We do not view this as a magic bullet, but we feel compelled to build upon our initial efforts to address change in today’s world.