TP21 - The Critical Role of Social Connectedness in Community Behavioral Health

Nearly half of adults in America characterize themselves as “sometimes or always” lonely. However, we know that many people with mental illness demonstrated impressive resilience against stress, partially due to efforts to combat isolation and loneliness by staying socially connected through virtual and other methods. This presentation will take a deep dive into the epidemiology of loneliness to illuminate its roots, as well as the science of social connection as a health and mental health promotion strategy, while also highlighting the role of our community behavioral health services in improving social connectedness.