Together

Book by Vivek Murthy, MD (2020)

The former U.S. Surgeon General investigates the public health crisis of loneliness, finding it as harmful to health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, and shares moving stories and research on how connection heals. Murthy weaves in his own surprise at discovering so much loneliness during his medical tour of America, and offers solutions at individual and community levels (from practicing presence and active listening in our personal relationships to designing more connected workplaces and neighbourhoods). This is a gentle, hopeful manifesto that speaks to educated professionals as well as any reader who has felt isolated. It legitimizes feelings of loneliness (pointing out that many struggle but are ashamed to admit it) and then provides a compassionate roadmap back to belonging. The tone is very warm and often personal. For someone who has become socially isolated or a busy professional who feels, “I have to shoulder these burdens by myself,” this book can spark a lightbulb moment: seeking support and investing in friendship are not luxuries; they’re vital for mental and physical health. Murthy’s status and use of data lend credibility, but he delivers the message with the heart of a healer. You can find more about Dr. Murthy and his book here.