The epidemic of loneliness and disconnection harms health

Loneliness is a silent epidemic that goes far beyond feeling bad.  Affecting one-in-two adults in America, our growing sense of social isolation harms both individual and societal health.

Feeling disconnected and lonely often leads to:

• Higher rates of depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and self-harm.
• Greater risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, dementia, diabetes, and other chronic conditions.
• Lower performance and productivity at school and work.

When people build social connections, many of these impacts can be reduced or even reversed.

2024 Thiru Family Trust Momentum Maker Grant

Supporting social connection and community to protect mental health in Arizona

The Thiru Family Trust Momentum Maker Grant (Momentum Maker) was created to inspire new paths to mental health and well-being in Arizona. For 2024, we’re focused on destigmatizing loneliness and overcoming social isolation.

• $75,000 to support a single project that builds social connection and community for any population.
• Arizona-based non-profit organizations and academic institutions are eligible to apply.
• We recommend that applicants review social isolation and loneliness information including the U.S. Surgeon General’s 2023 Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation report and Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) social connectedness resources.