Chronic loneliness can have negative health effects, so CIGNA surveyed 20,000 Americans to gauge the prevalence of this emotion. One in five respondents reported no close relationships at all, and one in four reported having no one with whom they can have a meaningful conversation. Those aged 18-22 - despite their proficiency with social media - report being most lonely. Relationships are also a critical factor in building resilience and recovering from the impact of trauma. Loneliness is a symptom of a larger problem, because those less lonely reported getting more sleep, spending more time with family, not overworking, and getting proper exercise. If loneliness affects you, take action, engage, or get counseling to overcome it.