How to Cure Loneliness with Genuine Human Connection

Dr. Kory Floyd is a professor of interpersonal communication at the University of Arizona, and the author of over 100 scientific papers and 16 books, including The Loneliness Cure: Six Strategies for Finding Real Connections in Your Life. Dr. Floyd’s work focuses on affectionate communication, which includes the verbal and nonverbal ways we express feelings of love and appreciation within families, romantic bonds, friendships, and other close relationships. He is an elected fellow of the International Communication Association, and has served as the editor-in-chief of Communication Monographs and the Journal of Family Communication. Dr. Floyd’s work has been recognized with the Charles H. Woolbert award and the Bernard J. Brommel award from the National Communication Association, as well as the Distinguished Scholar award from the Western States Communication Association and the Early Career Achievement award from the International Association for Relationship Research. 

 

In today’s episode, Shay Beider welcomes Dr. Floyd to discuss loneliness and the 6 strategies he outlines in his book, The Loneliness Cure, to overcome loneliness. He talks about how he sees the COVID-19 pandemic affects people's perceptions of loneliness, and how physical touch is a fundamental human need. He also discusses how a sense of belonging is a key ingredient that is vital for good health, and how we achieve that through a connection to our community. 

 

Transcripts for this episode are available at: https://www.integrativetouch.org/conversations-on-healing 

 

Show Notes:

Harlow, Bowlby, and Ainsworth’s work on the theory of attachment Loneliness Cure: Six Strategies for Finding Real Connections in Your Life Former Surgeon General Vivek Murthy Learn more about Dr. Kristen Neff Learn more about Viktor Frankl Learn more about Daniel Goleman

 

This podcast was created by Integrative Touch for Kids (ITK). ITK is working to change the way people experience healthcare. ITK supports families whose children have any type of special health or medical need. This includes kids with cancers, genetic conditions, autism, cerebral palsy, traumatic stress, and other serious health issues. We have pioneered a new therapy called Integrative Touch™ and reach 3500 people each year in the hospital and community settings. We engage communities in support of families struggling with special medical needs and offer unique Telehealth programs to families and healthcare providers during this challenging time. Thanks to the incredible support of our volunteers and contributors, individuals are able to receive our healing services at little or no cost.