April Health and Wysa today released new research showing that loneliness is not only a social challenge but a significant clinical risk factor with clear links to both mental and physical health. In a nationally representative survey of 2,044 US adults, the study found widespread loneliness along with strong associations to depression, pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance.

The report, Loneliness at the Crossroads of Mental and Physical Health, now available through April Health, shows that nearly one in three Americans (29 percent) often or always feel lonely. Among those who frequently feel lonely, 59 percent screened positive for depression, compared with only 7 percent of adults who rarely or never report loneliness.

The findings also show a striking physical toll. Seventy-nine percent of people who often feel lonely experience moderate to severe daily pain, nearly double the 41 percent reported by their less lonely peers. Sleep disturbance is far more common as well, with 52 percent struggling with insomnia compared with 15 percent in the non-lonely group. Fatigue affects 46 percent, twice the rate of those who are not lonely. Muscle or joint pain affects 39 percent, almost five times the 8 percent baseline, and 58 percent report frequent headaches or migraines.

The study offers important insights into how loneliness differs across age groups and living situations. Young adults aged 18 to 24 report the highest levels of persistent loneliness, with half saying they often or always feel lonely. Rates decline with age, reaching 10 percent among adults over 65. Living arrangements follow a similar pattern. The assumption that living alone increases loneliness is not supported; adults living with parents or in shared adult households experience some of the highest levels. Living with a partner offers the strongest protection, with only one in five reporting frequent loneliness. The results reinforce the difference between physical proximity and emotional connection.

The research emphasizes that while digital tools and AI-powered support continue to expand access to care, human connection remains essential. Technology can help monitor and support patients between visits, but meaningful interpersonal contact is still the foundation of effective care.

“Loneliness is no longer just a social issue; it is a clinical crisis that calls for integrated solutions,” said Jo Aggarwal, Founder and CEO of Wysa. “Despite the progress we are seeing in technology, the findings make clear that human-centered care, supported by digital tools, is what truly makes a difference. Our approach extends the reach of clinicians between appointments while keeping human connection at the center.”

The study also highlights that many patients see a clear link between their physical symptoms and mental health factors such as stress, anxiety, and depression. Yet fewer than half of those who are struggling attempt to access professional behavioral health support. Stigma, short appointment times, insurance confusion, and discomfort discussing emotional health all play a role. One in three adults is unaware that insurance can cover behavioral health services.

Given these insights, April Health by Wysa calls for coordinated efforts among healthcare providers and policymakers to strengthen integrated care models that address both mental and physical health. Key opportunities include:

• Linking primary care, behavioral health, and specialty clinics through collaborative care models
• Offering emotional support through both human-led and digital tools
• Increasing public awareness of insurance coverage for whole-person health

“Loneliness affects millions of people quietly, yet its impact is unmistakable across both mental and physical health,” Aggarwal added. “With compassionate, integrated care that is supported but not replaced by AI, we can help reduce suffering and build more connected, healthier communities.”

The full report, Loneliness at the Crossroads of Mental and Physical Health, is now available: https://www.aprilhealth.com/#resources

‍