“Loneliness is a public health issue, NHS Highland launch initiative to
raise awareness”
I welcome the NHS campaign to highlight the detrimental impact of loneliness which can affect so many people, young or old. In Argyll and Bute, we have a higher proportion of older people and our remote and rural geography which can make loneliness even more prevalent.
Loneliness can affect our physical health, our mental health, can even increase the risk of Alzheimer’s Disease, a cause I have particular interest in.
The NHS Highland campaign are looking to raise awareness and encourage the public to pledge to help tackle loneliness. I believe Scottish society has a long tradition of social engagement with our friends and neighbours and we care. Loneliness can be so easily overlooked. This campaign will be running throughout 2016 and 2017. I would urge us all to take a moment and engage with this campaign and if nothing else, be aware that loneliness is a very real problem.
• Campaign materials can be found at https://www.facebook.com/NHSHighlandReachOut/