U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy has declared loneliness to be a public health epidemic, citing a report that found half of U.S. adults have experienced it. The report suggests that loneliness can be as deadly as smoking a dozen cigarettes daily, and that more public health initiatives should be implemented to help individuals and communities address it. The report is an important step in recognizing the impact of loneliness on public health, and taking steps to ensure those struggling with it have access to the resources they need.