Why in News? 

The World Health Organization (WHO) Commission on Social Connection has released its global report on Social Connection.

Social Connection vs. Social Disconnection 

• Social Connection means interacting and bonding with people—like family, friends, classmates, or colleagues. 
• Social Disconnection happens when someone has limited social contact, feels unsupported, or has strained relationships. 

It includes, 

• Loneliness: Feeling a gap between the connection you want and what you have. 
• Social Isolation: Having very few or no regular social interactions.

Key Findings of the Report 

• Title of the Report: From loneliness to social connection: charting a path to healthier societies. 
• Loneliness is rising 
  • 1 in 6 people felt lonely (2014–2023), especially youth aged 13–29. 
  • About 1 in 3 older adults (1990–2022) and 1 in 4 teenagers (2003–2018) felt socially isolated. 
• Income Gap in Loneliness: 24% of people in low-income countries feel lonely vs. 11% in high-income countries.