Recently, a growing number of scientific studies and publications have focused on loneliness. They reveal that loneliness influences a variety of psychological and physical diseases, and even mortality. Some researchers point out that loneliness, just like smoking, is one of the most crucial factors contributing to the development of many diseases. However, the human experience is essentially lonely or existential. Philosophers have emphasized the positive effect of loneliness, suggesting that it may provide us with maturity and wisdom. I believe we have to realize that humans can be regarded as dual structures, experiencing being both lonely and relational. Scientific research on loneliness is apt to focus on the relationship aspect of humans. By ignoring the dual structure of humanity and depending more on the scientific research on loneliness, medical professionals may encourage people to avoid loneliness. This approach may overlook the maturity brought about by the pain of being lonely. It is true that adequate medical and social strategies are indispensable to address loneliness as a risk factor, but medical professionals also need to understand the positive effect of loneliness in our life. There must be adequate treatments and scientific researches focusing on the positive aspect of loneliness.
