Disconnect to Reconnect

In today’s fast-paced, always-online world, more and more of us are finding ourselves feeling deeply lonely. In fact, did you know that about one in six people worldwide struggle with loneliness? According to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2025), loneliness isn’t just an emotional weight — it’s also tied to serious health issues, even contributing to around 100 deaths every hour globally.

We now know that human connection is a powerful kind of medicine. It doesn’t just help emotionally — it actually improves physical health. People with strong social ties often have a greater will to live and more resilience to overcome life’s struggles. Think about a job you may have disliked but stuck with because you had a “work bestie” who made the days better. That’s the power of connection — it increases endurance, hope, and joy, even in hard places.

Sadly, this kind of connection is becoming rarer, especially for young people. Teenagers are reporting more loneliness than ever, and it’s affecting everything from their grades to their self-esteem. For adults, loneliness can make it harder to find a job, stay employed, or even earn a fair wage. And across all age groups, it’s linked to serious health issues like stroke, diabetes, memory decline, and even early death.

On the flip side, real social connection can lower inflammation, reduce anxiety and depression, and protect your health in ways medicine sometimes can’t.

So, how do we reconnect?

If the idea of “getting out there” sounds exhausting, I get it. We’re all busy. But the good news is that it doesn’t take grand gestures to make a difference. Here are five simple ideas you can try this week to build more connection — for yourself and for others. And hey, even if you’re not feeling lonely, someone around you might be — these could help them more than you know.

1) Speak to the people you already see. At the grocery store or local coffee shop, take a second to read the cashier’s nametag. Look them in the eye, smile, and say, “Thanks, [name] — how’s your day going?” These tiny moments of real connection can brighten your day and theirs.

2) Swap one text a week for a phone call. Texting is easy, but hearing a voice creates warmth and closeness. Call your sister, your old college roommate, or your buddy down the road instead of sending that quick message.

3) Go face-to-face when you can. Have you ever called someone in your house instead of walking to the next room? No shame — we’ve all done it. But just once a week, get up and connect face-to-face. It’s a small habit that adds up.

4) Schedule one social outing a month. Plan a lunch, go to a community event, or meet up for a walk at the park. Put it on the calendar. With all the screen time and convenience of messaging apps, we sometimes forget how refreshing it is to be with people in person.

5) Practice the “give and receive” approach. Having a hard time making friends? Start by giving. Volunteer at the local animal shelter, sign up to rock babies at the hospital, or serve at a food pantry. You’ll naturally meet like-minded people.

Then, make space to receive. Maybe it’s time to reach out to that neighbor who knows how to can vegetables, or finally sign up for those art lessons you’ve been thinking about. Community is built when we give and receive.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. From here, think about what makes the most sense in your life. After all, you’re the expert on your own needs.

Let’s use technology for all the wonderful things it offers — but let’s also not forget the power of real, in-person connection. Whether it’s chatting with a neighbor at the farmers' market, attending a local high school game, or having coffee with a friend, these small choices can lead to a healthier, happier, and more connected life.

(Originally published in the November 2025 edition of Monroe Matters)

Life By Design Counseling

Lisa Elliott Schumacher is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and longtime Monroe County resident who serves the community through her counseling practice in Bolingbroke. She is deeply passionate about helping people move toward healing, wholeness, and hope—caring for the body, soul, and spirit. Lisa’s guiding belief is that life is meant to be lived by design—with intention, meaning, and vibrancy—rather than by chance. Through her work, she seeks to come alongside others as they design lives of purpose, balance, and joy.

Please note: the reflections shared here are not therapy and should not replace professional help. If you are in crisis, call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org. For medical, safety, or fire emergencies, dial 911 immediately.