The German government is taking a proactive approach to tackle the growing issue of loneliness among its population. They've adopted a strategy with over a hundred measures, recognizing that loneliness negatively impacts health and social interaction. The strategy, outlined by Family Affairs Minister Lisa Paus, aims to shed light on the issue and provide ways to combat it.
Measures include raising public awareness through campaigns, promoting research into the health, social, and political effects of loneliness, and surveying its extent and prevalence with a "loneliness barometer." The government also plans to examine funding for university chairs focused on loneliness and continue promoting pilot projects to reduce therapy place waiting times.
In terms of enrichment data, the strategy includes funding for research, awareness campaigns, and mental health support accessibility. High-risk groups, such as low-income earners and men with a migration background, will receive targeted interventions. Online therapy and social prescribing are also highlighted as effective solutions, and employers are encouraged to promote social events to mitigate feelings of isolation in the workplace.
So, in simpler terms, the German government is funding research, running campaigns, and exploring ways to make mental health support more accessible to combat loneliness. They're also focusing on specific populations and approaches like online therapy and social events at work to address this societal challenge.
