A warning that cannot be ignored

FOR some of us it’s hard to imagine a life where the only time your phone rings is to advise you of a courier delivery.

Many also struggle with the idea the only person we might speak to in an entire week is the post office worker on pension day.

But for far too many people this is the sad reality of their existence.

Medics reckon loneliness can damage your health more than smoking – and it’s a silent epidemic that crosses all age divides.

It’s not just older people who are deprived of human companionship – younger generations are also feeling the effects of isolation.

It’s not the preserve of rural residents either as many living in bustling urban centres are also feeling marginalised.

With every technological advance our social skills retreat – and the onslaught is relentless.

Kids react with puzzlement if someone suggests they call round to see their friends.

Sure what’s the point when we can interact on our gaming consoles? Likewise teenagers and young adults who are glued to their smartphones.

Retirement should be a time of joy for those who have worked hard all their lives and deserve a bit of respite but that’s not always the case.

The Loneliness Taskforce warned we need to act sooner rather than later – otherwise we’re heading for a mental health crisis of tragic proportions.