Why Loneliness is the New Public Health Crisis

Loneliness is more than just a feeling—it’s a growing public health crisis with serious mental and physical consequences. In this episode of The Vitals, host Leslie Schachter, PA-C, sits down with Mount Sinai experts to explore the science of loneliness, its effects across age groups, and what can be done about it.

Featuring: Dr. Fernando Carnavali, Associate Professor of Medicine and Internal Medicine Physician;
Dr. Lea Marin, Assistant Professor of Psychiatry;
Dr. Shawn Rhoads, Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Neuroscience

Together, they discuss how loneliness affects the brain, the body, and society—and what clinicians and communities can do to help. From technology’s double-edged role to practical interventions for patients, this wide-ranging conversation is essential viewing for anyone invested in health and connection.