Miami University is set to host a thought-provoking event aiming to spotlight a silent yet pervasive issue impacting millions across the nation: chronic loneliness. On Thursday, November 30, at 7:30 p.m., the Performing Arts Series will screen the documentary film "All the Lonely People" in Hall Auditorium. This event will be hosted by the film's producer, Joseph Applebaum, offering attendees a chance to delve into the narratives of resilience in the face of profound isolation.

The documentary, shedding light on the lives of various individuals—from an asylum seeker with a newborn to a government official—seeks to underscore the startling reality that over 49 million people in the US grapple with pervasive loneliness. Drawing a parallel to the health risks associated with chronic smoking, the US Surgeon General emphasizes the detrimental health consequences linked to prolonged loneliness.

"Stories of Resilience in the Face of Loneliness" forms the thematic core of the documentary, illustrating the struggles and triumphs of individuals battling this epidemic. Following the screening, an in-depth discussion will be led by filmmaker Joseph Applebaum, offering insights into the film’s creation and the impact he has seen from it, inspiring and empowering individuals and communities to combat loneliness.

The filmmakers' personal journey, intertwined with their exploration of loneliness, unveils a global epidemic that silently affects countless lives. In Zimbabwe, they sit with grandmothers who volunteer to talk to lonely people on the streets. In South Carolina, they stay in “co-communities” where neighbors of all ages cook and care for each other. In Scotland, they follow an immigrant mother who breaks her profound loneliness even as she seeks asylum with their new child. And in London, they walk with the United Kingdom’s new Minister of Loneliness as she struggles to end an epidemic now threatening a national healthcare system. Spoiler alert: she gets lonely.

"This event aims to serve as a catalyst for meaningful conversations and collaborations between campus and community resources," remarks Patti Liberatore, Director of Miami Performing Arts Series. Collaboratively conceived by Sabrina Jewell, Marketing Director of Oxford Seniors, and Dr. Jenniffer Kinney, professor of Sociology and Gerontology at Miami University, the event seeks to raise awareness about the substantial harm caused by loneliness across diverse demographics.

Tickets for the screening are available for $5 through this link, inviting everyone to join this crucial dialogue and contribute to bridging the gap of disconnection prevalent in today's society.

For a glimpse into the poignant narrative, watch the film trailer here and mark your calendars for this compelling event aimed at fostering empathy, understanding, and community engagement in combating loneliness.

This event stands as an invitation for all - across ages, professions, and locations - to come together, understand, and address the silent epidemic of loneliness pervading our society.