Social Disconnection in the Slovak Republic: Implications for Health and Well-being
M Hajdúk, A Kurilla, N Čavojská, V Ivančík, D Dančík, A Straková, A Heretik, R Dzambazovič, D Gerbery, M Mrva, P BrandoburováAbstract
Background
Social disconnection, comprising loneliness and social isolation, is increasingly recognized as a significant public health concern. This is the first epidemiological study to investigate the prevalence of social disconnection in the general adult population of the Slovak Republic and its associations with mental and somatic health.
Methods
A representative sample of 3,006 adults was recruited. Data were collected through standardized questionnaires via face-to-face interviews in November 2024 (M age=48.51, SD = 16.45). Standardized measures of loneliness, social isolation, depression, anxiety, and somatic health indicators were used. Longitudinal data from a 1-year follow-up are analyzed and will be presented.
Results
The baseline prevalence of loneliness was 25.3% and social isolation 19.1%; approximately 10% of the population was both lonely and isolated. Significant associations were found between social disconnection and mental health, with higher loneliness and social isolation linked to greater depression and anxiety severity. Loneliness was more strongly related to health-related quality of life than social isolation (r = 0.490 vs r = 0.256). Lonely and socially isolated individuals visited GPs more often, had a more sedentary lifestyle, and were less physically active. Lonely (OR = 3.02) and isolated (OR = 1.96) individuals had a higher likelihood of chronic health problems.
Conclusions
This study showed high prevalence of social disconnection in the Slovak Republic and its substantial impact on mental and somatic health. The findings underscore the need for public health strategies addressing social disconnection. Further research is warranted to understand underlying mechanisms and develop targeted interventions for its prevention in the context of Slovak republic.