THE BIG HOUSE AND THE BIG FENCE

Funny how the Western dream of a big house, with a big fence around it, usually also means fewer people around — more isolation, and more loneliness.

I read that in Mandurah, a large share of houses have a single occupant. And yes, there is a link between loneliness and deteriorating mental health.

Makes perfect sense. More time in your own thoughts, your mind runs, and you suffer.

With people around — elders to talk to, people to laugh with, people to share with, people to discuss life with — we heal and we grow.

Make sure you say hi to a stranger today. It may just brighten their lonely day.