The Epidemic of Disconnection: Why Relationship Skills Are the New Mental Health Crisis Response10/29/2025  By Dr. David M. Mabry Encompass Executive Director We are living in what experts are calling an epidemic of disconnection.
Despite being the most digitally connected generation in history, people report feeling more isolated, anxious, and emotionally exhausted than ever before. The numbers are staggering: rates of anxiety and depression have risen more than 25% globally since 2020, and loneliness has become a public health concern on par with obesity and smoking. In 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General released a landmark Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community, declaring that the lack of meaningful relationships is now “a major contributor to poor mental and physical health.” Research cited in the advisory shows that chronic loneliness increases the risk of premature death by 26–32%, rivaling the effects of smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Let that sink in: our relationships—or lack of them—are literally a matter of life and death.
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 By Jenny Hamilton I might be odd, but I like the new normal of meeting with people virtually! I’m an introverted, shy techie who enjoys trying new ways of doing things! I also enjoy people but am most comfortable being alone. Virtual fits me perfectly! (Yes, my poor husband often has trouble getting me to connect with him when we’re “in person”.)
So what’s the status of my “in-person” relationships? I think they’re getting better! Why? Because, believe it or not, during my virtual encounters I’m often reminded of some very important truths about relationships. Here are some favorites of what I like to call …“My Virtual Presents."  The teaser picture in the March 2 Springfield News-Sun caught my attention. Rob Rue, a friend and Springfield city commissioner, was standing with a group of students holding a sign that said "I UNPLUG TO __________." Hmmmm, wonder what this is about? In a few seconds I was reading the inspirational story of local students promoting the National Day of Unplugging from sunset on Friday, March 6 through sundown on Saturday, March 7.
 Between 2010 and 2015 the number of teens reporting feelings of uselessness and lack of joy increased 33 percent in large national surveys. Teen suicide attempts increased 23 percent while actual suicides between 13 to 18-year-olds increased 31 percent. A significant trend. What could account for such dramatic increases?
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HostsDr. David Marine and Theresa Mabry are Co-Directors of Encompass since June 1, 2024. TOPICS
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Funding is provided by Clark County Job and Family Services, Charles L. Shor Foundation, Nehemiah Foundation, Springfield Foundation, Turner Foundation, and private donations and fees.
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Encompass Connection Center services are provided to all eligible persons on a non-discriminatory basis. Encompass Connection Center complies with all applicable laws and regulations concerning discrimination does not discriminate on the basis of the potential participant's race, gender, gender orientation, age, disability or religion.
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Program content is the sole responsibility of Encompass Connection Center and does not necessarily represent the views of the funders.
Encompass Connection Center services are provided to all eligible persons on a non-discriminatory basis. Encompass Connection Center complies with all applicable laws and regulations concerning discrimination does not discriminate on the basis of the potential participant's race, gender, gender orientation, age, disability or religion.
Registered 501(c)(3). EIN: 37-1485217