Loneliness and Isolation Increase Use Of Dating Apps
The US Surgeon General has recently drawn attention to the pervasive issue of loneliness in America, reported by about one-in-two adults, and its connection to the rise of romance dating scams.
http://jfa.tips/SurgeonGen
These scams have far-reaching consequences, affecting not only the individuals targeted but also their families and communities.
Loneliness is not just a negative emotion - it can have detrimental effects on both personal and societal well-being..
It is associated with a greater risk of cardiovascular disease, dementia, stroke, depression, anxiety, and premature death. The mortality impact of being socially disconnected is similar to that caused by smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day, four and even more significant than that associated with obesity and physical inactivity. And the harmful consequences of a society that lacks social connection can be felt in our schools, workplaces, and civic organizations, where performance, productivity, and engagement are diminished.
It will take all of us—individuals and families, schools and workplaces, health care and public health systems, technology companies, governments, faith organizations, and communities—working together to destigmatize loneliness and change our culture and policy response.
We can start by strengthening our connections and relationships in our own lives. Our relationships are an untapped resource—a source of healing hiding in plain sight. They can help us live healthier, more productive, and more fulfilled lives. Answer that phone call from a friend. Make time to share a meal. Listen without the distraction of your phone. Perform an act of service. Express yourself authentically. The keys to human connection are simple but extraordinarily powerful.
However, be careful. We can build lives and communities that are healthier and happier. Dating apps serve a purpose. Used properly, they can introduce you to your 'significant other,' and you can take on the challenges ahead.
Your future depends on what you do today.
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Romance Scams Impact People Of All Ages
In recent years, America has seen a significant rise in the number of adults reporting loneliness, with approximately one in two adults affected. The COVID-19 pandemic only exacerbated this issue, isolating individuals from their friends, loved ones, and support systems.
Loneliness is an unpleasant emotion and a public health concern associated with increased risks of cardiovascular disease, dementia, stroke, depression, anxiety, and premature death. The consequences of a disconnected society are felt in schools, workplaces, and civic organizations, where performance, productivity, and engagement are diminished. As early as thirteen years old to senior citizens in their nineties, romance, and other scams are omnipresent.
The Connection Between Loneliness and Dating Romance Scams
Loneliness can make people more susceptible to fraud and manipulation, as they may be more willing to seek companionship and connection through any means available, including online dating platforms. Scammers know this vulnerability and prey on lonely individuals, exploiting their need for connection to extract money, personal information, or other assets.
These scams often begin with the scammer establishing a genuine connection with the victim through online dating platforms, social media, or email. Once trust is established, the scammer manipulates the victim into sending money, sharing personal information, or engaging in other compromising activities. The victims often suffer from not only financial loss but emotional devastation as well. http://jfa.tips/DatingLoneliness
Dating Romance Scams Affecting All Ages
While one might assume that older adults are more susceptible to dating romance scams, the truth is that these scams impact people of all ages. Young adults, middle-aged individuals, and seniors have fallen victim to these scams. The pervasive feelings of loneliness and the ease of online connection have made people across the age spectrum vulnerable to this type of fraud. Scammers are aware of the loneliness epidemic and exploit people's need for connection by establishing seemingly genuine relationships, ultimately leading to financial, emotional, and often physical devastation for the victims.
if they appear too good to be true ...it probably is.