NHS GP Dr Amir Khan has shared concerns in a new podcast11:45, 22 May 2026Dr Amir Khan, an NHS GP known for his frequent ITV daytime appearances on programmes such as Good Morning Britain and Lorraine, has warned that an "epidemic" in the UK could be impacting more of the population than people realise. He has also shared "the best thing" he would prescribe for someone struggling with the issue.‌Speaking during a recent instalment of the No Appointments Necessary podcast, the medical professional shared his worries about loneliness and the misconceptions surrounding it. Co-host Cherry Healy said: "One of the conversations that's happening at the moment, which seems to be everywhere, is loneliness. I've heard that it is as bad for you as smoking."‌When considering loneliness, many people would assume it mostly affects elderly people. But younger people can also be vulnerable, Dr Amir Khan says.‌He said: "It affects younger people as well, who are very, very lonely, and they're just engaging online, they're not engaging in real life. All of that affects the way the brain works."When you're seeing people in real life - talking, interacting with each other, laughing, listening - we're using different parts of our brain at the same time. One of the best things I can prescribe for my patients is lunch with your friends or a coffee with your granddad."Content cannot be displayed without consent‌Millions of people will have experienced feelings of isolation, and occasional loneliness can be considered a natural part of life, reports the Express. However, when loneliness becomes intense or persists over an extended period, it can have detrimental effects on mental health.The Mental Health Foundation claims that "anyone can experience loneliness", but certain risk factors increase the chances of severe and lasting loneliness that can affect our mental health. These include:Being widowedBeing singleBeing unemployedLiving aloneHaving a long-term health condition or disabilityLiving in rented accommodationBeing between 16 and 24 years oldBeing a carerBeing from an ethnic minority communityBeing LGBTQIA+‌The Foundation notes that "people tend to assume loneliness is about age and physical isolation". These misconceptions can cause people to miss those who are 'lonely in a crowd' - including students, carers and people in urban areas.Support for people experiencing lonelinessTackling loneliness can be challenging. But there are steps we can all take to manage loneliness and avoid some of the negative emotions and mental health issues that can follow it.Article continues belowThe Mental Health Foundation said: "It can be hard to talk to others when you're feeling lonely. However, trying to connect with the people you meet as you go about your day can be helpful."Even catching someone's eye and saying hello as you walk along can make you feel better. It could be about saying hello to the postman or going to the shops and talking to the person at the checkout. By sharing a polite greeting, you might find you give someone else a positive lift too."It also outlines some additional approaches to help, including discovering fulfilling hobbies, stimulating your mind or exploring talking therapies. Click here to see more details.