Bloomington Public Health Combats Loneliness Epidemic with “Start with Hi!” Campaign in Minnesota Cities

With its new Start with Hi! program, Bloomington Public Health is taking action to combat the rising epidemic of social isolation and loneliness. Beginning on a Wednesday afternoon at the Minnesota Masonic Heritage Center, the program aims to strengthen bonds amongst Bloomington, Edina, and Richfield locals by exchanging kind, straightforward greetings. With the goal of sowing the seeds of a more cohesive society, the initiative’s event welcomes community members to an evening of activities and light food.

The Start with Hi! initiative is a reaction to a national health crisis that has been making headlines, not just a sentimental gesture. According to research, loneliness is just as harmful to your health as smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day, which is why the U.S. Surgeon General declared it an epidemic last year. On the other hand, there are numerous health advantages of having close social ties. This initiative is a component of the city’s strategic endeavors to support community and individual wellness, a purpose that appears more important than ever in light of the alarming local isolation statistics.

More than 30% of adults in the area report feeling lonely or alone, which is a shocking percentage of the population. Additionally, the younger generation is being impacted by emotional anguish, which is preventing them from taking advantage of educational chances. About 20% of students in the ninth and eleventh grades have missed school due to stress, anxiety, or grief, per a statement cited in an article. The public health department has given mental health top priority in its strategy as a result of these findings.

The main goal of Start with Hi! is to unite the community. This idea was summed up by Public Health Administrator Nick Kelley in an article: “Join us as we collaborate to build a community where everyone feels like they belong.” The schedule consists of a number of interesting activities that guarantee good times and camaraderie in a nurturing environment. If the effort is successful, it may represent the start of a closer-knit trio of cities. The Bloomington Public Health website has information for people who would like to participate or find out more about upcoming events.

Note: Every piece of content is rigorously reviewed by our team of experienced writers and editors to ensure its accuracy. Our writers use credible sources and adhere to strict fact-checking protocols to verify all claims and data before publication. If an error is identified, we promptly correct it and strive for transparency in all updates, feel free to reach out to us via email. We appreciate your trust and support!