As we navigate the complexities of our increasingly interconnected world, despite all the technology it’s important to remember the fundamental human need for greater connection and sense of belonging.
“Children are not meant to face the world alone. Through the power of social connection, they can transform loneliness into belonging, and discover the magic of friendship.”
~ Unknown
But loneliness is a silent problem. It often goes unnoticed, and can make any mental and physical health issues we’re facing feel worse.
Recently, the Surgeon General of the United States raised alarm bells on loneliness, calling it a silent yet pervasive epidemic. The Surgeon General’s report claims that a lack of social connection can be as harmful as smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day.
Loneliness affects people from all walks of life, regardless of their age or circumstances. It could be an elderly person living alone, a professional working remotely, or a student dealing with a medical condition while changing schools. For some, the feeling of loneliness can be persistent and intense.
For students with medical and mental health conditions who can’t attend school, loneliness can be crushing. They may feel excluded from social activities, miss out on learning opportunities, and struggle to connect with their peers.
These experiences can significantly impact a student’s emotional wellbeing, but we know it can worsen their physical health, too. So, it’s crucial for us to sustain connections.
This is why I want to take a moment to highlight a few ways you can help a sick kid you know, who is dealing with loneliness:
- Reach Out. A simple act like reaching out can make a world of difference. Taking a moment to send a message, give them a call, or even send a letter or care package can brighten their day and remind them that they are not alone.
- Hang Out Online. We are fortunate to have many options for online games that can be played with friends. Spending an hour playing games together can be a great way to combat social isolation and provide much-needed company.
- Establish Digital Classroom Connections. For most students with medical conditions, the sense of loneliness is strongest due to the missed connections at school. MissingSchool has many resources to help you find the best way to bridge this gap. Using video calls or a telepresence robot to connect with the classroom can make a huge difference for many sick kids.
Ultimately, building a strong community is one of the best ways to fight loneliness. Our connection to the community is what gives us strength.
As the end of the financial year approaches, we would like to take a moment to express our gratitude for your continued support and generosity. Now is the time to make a tax-deductible donation and help keep lonely kids connected.
Thank you for being a wonderful part of our community.
There are many ways to help:
- follow along and cheer us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn
- share this newsletter with your family, friends, or colleagues so we can reach more sick kids, and
- donate towards getting a seriously sick child back into their classroom.
Every action moves us closer to the finish line: a world where every sick child is seen and heard.
Let’s keep connecting.
