Public Health 475 - Epidemic of Loneliness
Spring
2026
01
3.00
Gloria DiFulvio
TU TH 10:00AM 11:15AM
UMass Amherst
82264
gloria@schoolph.umass.edu
Vivek Murthy, the Surgeon General of the United States, describes loneliness and a major public health problem that has reached epidemic levels worldwide. In this class we will define loneliness and the resulting disconnection and isolation. We will discuss the importance of social connectedness at a community, national, and global level. By exploring issues of identity, race, displacement, and aging, we will gain a deeper understanding of the issues surrounding loneliness. In this course we will also include strategies for social change to create a more connected world.
Open to junior and senior Public Health majors only. SPHHS 150 If the class and the Spire waitlist are full and/or you are unable to self-enroll in this course (for another reason), please complete this waitlist link: https://tinyurl.com/PHWaitlist-Electives