Japan has appointed a "Minister of Loneliness" to try and reduce loneliness and social isolation among its residents as the country deals with rising suicide rates. During the month of October, more Japanese died from suicide than had died from COVID-19 in all of 2020. There were 2,153 suicide deaths that month and 1,765 total virus deaths up to the end of October, according to the Japanese National Police Agency. Studies show that loneliness has been linked to a higher risk of health issues like heart disease, dementia, and eating disorders.

People have worked to solve the loneliness issue in a variety of ways. One company designed a robot to hold someone’s hand when they’re lonely and one man charges people to simply sit with them and “do nothing” except keep them company.

When I read this account, it hit me; how many people are lonely in the area where I live? It's a question that I can't answer.

The UK appointed a minister of loneliness a number of years ago, to combat the loneliness of many of Britain's elderly. Here's a video that shares the struggles of 2 of the UK's older members, and I found it heart-breaking to watch. Click HERE.

"Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others."  Phillipians 2:3-4

Although I don't know how many people in my surrounding communities are lonely, I can ask God to help me be a blessing to those who are struggling with it, and to be mindful of this every day. May God help us all.