A recent article in the New York Times reported on the skyrocketing rates of loneliness, citing various studies, including one conducted by the American Psychiatric Association that found 25 percent of American residents are lonelier today than they were before the pandemic, as well as the decision by the World Health Organization to make loneliness an official global public health concern.
The negative impact of loneliness is not just emotional. Studies have correlated feelings of loneliness with an increased risk of depression and, among seniors, loneliness has been linked with cardiovascular disease, dementia, declines in motor functions, and frailty. Research has shown that loneliness, social isolation, and living alone increases the risk of premature death at a rate similar to cigarette smoking or obesity.
At WJCS, our services demonstrate every day that you, that no one in Westchester, is alone. We are here for seniors who are struggling with isolation, people grieving over the loss of a loved one, trauma survivors, LGBTQIA+ youth, individuals with disabilities, and families facing emotional and educational challenges.
Our dedicated community of volunteers play an active role in bolstering social connections. WJCS volunteers help with holiday drives, delivering food to homebound seniors, providing companionship to those who are recovering from mental health challenges, boosting employment skills for individuals with disabilities, and much more.
Aristotle wrote, “What is the essence of life? To serve others and do good.” Volunteering is doing good. And doing good feels good!
