Loneliness Weakens the Brain

Experts point out that prolonged loneliness can cause both psychological and physical problems, noting that this condition has many negative effects particularly on the brain.

Barış Metin, Professor and Neurologist at Üsküdar University NPİSTANBUL Hospital, provided information about the negative effects of loneliness on brain chemistry and structure, as well as risks to mental health.

Metin noted that structural and functional changes are observed in areas such as the prefrontal cortex, amygdala and hippocampus in isolated individuals, and emphasized that lack of social stimulation weakens brain functions, while digital communication cannot fully replace face-to-face interaction.

Chronic loneliness increases risk of both mental and physical illness!
Prof. Dr. Barış Metin stated that prolonged loneliness triggers a stress response, keeping the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis continuously active, and said: "This condition can lead to increased cortisol levels and over time to changes such as neuroinflammation, hippocampal damage and loss of connections. Chronic loneliness increases the risk of many problems including depression, anxiety, Alzheimer's disease and heart disease."

Defining loneliness from a neurological perspective, Metin explained: "From a neuroscientific standpoint, loneliness is the perception of a discrepancy between the expected level of social connection and the actual social situation. This difference activates the brain's social reward and social threat processing networks in particular."

Loneliness negatively affects brain chemistry! 
Prof. Dr. Barış Metin pointed out certain areas of the brain that are particularly affected by loneliness and said: "The prefrontal cortex (particularly the medial PFC) is the region involved in social evaluation and self-awareness. Hyperactivity can be observed in this region in lonely individuals. The amygdala is associated with social threat and fear perception. In lonely individuals, the amygdala may be more activated. The hippocampus is involved in memory and stress regulation. Prolonged loneliness can lead to volume loss in this region. The posterior cingulate cortex and temporoparietal junction areas are also associated with social perception and understanding of mental states."

Noting that certain chemicals come into play in response to loneliness, Metin said:
"Cortisol is a chronic stress hormone. It can remain elevated during prolonged loneliness. Dopamine is associated with social rewards. It is thought that the dopamine system weakens in conditions of loneliness. Oxytocin is the social bonding hormone. Its levels may decrease during loneliness. Serotonin—low serotonin levels are associated with loneliness and depression."

Effects of loneliness can be observed with brain imaging techniques!
Prof. Dr. Barış Metin emphasized that prolonged loneliness particularly causes a decline in cognitive functions in the elderly, and said: "Many studies have shown that loneliness increases the probability of dementia."
Metin noted that the effects of loneliness can be observed with brain imaging techniques such as MRI and PET, and said: "Changes in activity and shape have been reported particularly in the prefrontal cortex, insula, amygdala and hippocampus. These are areas involved in both fundamental cognitive functions of the brain such as memory, emotions and decision-making, as well as in social communication."

Brain functions weaken without social stimulation!
Prof. Dr. Barış Metin, stating that digital communication can partially replace real social contact, said: "However, it is not the full equivalent of communication. The brain processes multiple sensory cues such as facial expressions, tone of voice, touch and smell in face-to-face interactions. This activates oxytocin and empathy networks more. In digital communication such as messaging or video calls, the sense of social connection is limited. Empathic brain circuits are less activated."

Metin concluded his remarks as follows:
"First and foremost, one should not live with loneliness. We should change our lifestyle and habits to become more social individuals. Our brain needs social stimulation and its functions will weaken without social stimulation. Therefore, if you feel lonely, first seek support from those close to you and then from professionals."