26 Cocktail Recipes For Making The Most Of The Long Labor Day Weekend

labor day cocktails

Get ready to raise your glass and toast to the last days of summer with our lineup of Labor Day cocktails. These sips are simply bursting with vibrant flavors and that festive spirit the long weekend needs! Whether you're lounging by the pool, firing up the grill, or hosting a backyard bash, this post is your ultimate source of recipe inspiration to sip, savor, and say "sayonara" to the season. Cheers!

Strawberry Lemonade Aperol Margarita

The refreshing combo of strawberries, lemon, and lime recalls the scorching heat of the summer. So, as the season dies down this Labor Day, keep the party going with these simple margaritas! (via Half Baked Harvest)

Pomegranate Kombucha Mimosa

It doesn't *have* to be brunch time whenever you serve these kombucha-clad mimosas, but if you pair them with some waffles, each sip will be pretty dang good. (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Empress Lavender Haze

Think of homemade lemonade. Now think of it with a boozy lavender twist. That's precisely what this hazy sip tastes like! To make it, shake 1 oz lavender-honey syrup and 2 oz lemonade together over ice, strain into an ice-filled glass, then top the drink off with 2 oz Empress 1908 Gin and garnish with a sprig of lavender. (via Empress Gin)

Cucumber Lime Margarita

The addition of cucumber makes this Labor Day cocktail ultra-hydrating, which is a good thing, especially if you're spending the holiday outside. 🥵 (via The Edgy Veg)

Patrón Silver Ranch Water

For a killer sip, combine 1.5 oz of Patrón Silver and .75 oz of lime juice in a tall glass filled with ice. Top it off with your preferred sparkling mineral water, and stir. You can *also* optionally add .75 oz of orange liqueur for the vibes. (via Patrón)

White Sangria

Mango, blueberries, blackberries, and more fruits mix harmoniously together amongst some white wine for an easy Labor Day cocktail! Once you drink is done, you'll have a fruity snack waiting at the bottom of the glass for you. (via Mixop)

Passion Fruit Daiquri

Who can resist a sweet cocktail like this? It's an easy one – all you need is some rum, lime juice, passion fruit juice and sugar. (via Crowded Kitchen)

Apple Smash

In a cocktail shaker, mix 2 oz Proper No. Twelve Irish Apple, .75 oz lemon juice, and a splash of fresh pineapple juice. Pour the mixture over ice and top things off with club soda. Garnish with a mint sprig, and get ready for the best Labor Day ever. (via Proper No. Twelve Whiskey)

Rhubarb Moscow Mule

Though you wouldn't expect it, rhubarb makes an excellent addition to any cocktail. Emulate your go-to Moscow Mule with this recipe that leverages the stalky veg. (via Vikalinka)

Piña Colada

With summer on the outs, take every opportunity you can to immerse yourself in the summertime feels. Step 1? Sippin' on this Piña Colada. (via Averie Cooks)

Sgroppino

Add 2 oz Riondo Prosecco (or whichever you prefer), 0.5 oz vodka, and a scoop of your fave lemon sorbet to a chilled bowl, and whip together until foamy and velvety. Pour the mixture into a white wine glass, and sip your way through an imaginary Italian vacay. (via Riondo)

Woodford Reserve Malt Whiskey Buck

Add 1.5 oz Woodford Reserve Malt Whiskey, 0.5 oz lemon juice, and 0.25 oz rich simple syrup to an iced shaker. Once diluted, double-strain the contents into a glass with ice, top with grapefruit soda, and garnish with a grapefruit slice! (via Woodford Reserve)

Pomegranate Orange Sangria

Why not make a big batch of this sangria for the whole party to enjoy? This one carries the fruity flavors of orange and pomegranate for that extra oomph. And, of course, wine is always a good idea. (via Completely Delicious)

Sweet Tea Prosecco Cocktails

These sweet tea sippers take notes from the classic Arnold Palmer, this time with a nice splash of vodka to simply take the edge off. Bring on the bubbly! (via Vanilla and Bean)

Strawberry Basil Fizz Margarita

This margarita combines two unlikely partners: strawberries and basil. To make it, muddle 1 strawberry and 2 basil leaves in the bottom of a glass. Next, add 2 oz Cointreau and 1 oz fresh lime juice. Ice that bad boy, and top with club soda for a very tasty time. (via Cointreau)

Coconut Dreams

In a cocktail shaker, combine 1.5 oz Cazadores Café, 1.5 oz Perfect Puree Hibiscus, 4 oz coconut water, and 2 dashes of orange bitters with ice, shake, and serve over the rocks in a Collins glass and garnish with mint and orange twist. This'll get the people going. 😋 (via Cazadores)

Sparkling Margaritas with Lime Salt

Make a citrusy twist on the ol' margarita by throwing some sparkling water in there and garnishing with lime salt. These changes are small, but have big payoff once you go to drink! (via Earthly Provisions)

Campari Spritz

Get ready to rock Labor Day weekend with this iconic cocktail. In a wine glass (though you can use any kind), combine 3 parts Cinzano Prosecco, 2 parts Campari, and 1 part soda water over ice. Before you sip, make sure to garnish fancily with an orange slice or peel! (via Campari)

METAXA 12 Stars Sour

This cocktail is great if you're a citrus lover. Shake 1.5 oz METAXA 12 Stars, 0.75 oz lime juice, and 0.5 oz sugar syrup over ice, then strain over more ice in a rocks glass. Once you finish the drink with some lemon zest, you'll feel totally holiday-ready. (via METAXA)

Raspberry Peach Cocktail Slushies

This cocktail recipe is pure genius, and we love that you don't need anything too special to make it – just a blender, frozen fruit, lime juice, sugar, tequila, and triple sec. Yummmm. (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)

Mint Julep

Mint and lemon juice form a flavorful partnership in this whiskey-forward drink. Equal parts refreshing and buzzy, this is definitely one you'll want on Labor Day. (via Bowl of Delicious)

Tito's Soda Pineapple

This cocktail is complete in less time than it takes you to say "Labor Day." Almost. Simply mix together some Tito's, sparkling water, and pineapple juice, and you're good to go. It's *that* easy. (via Tito's Vodka)

High Roller Margarita

To make this one-hell-of-a-good-time marg, start by muddling a few lime, lemon, and orange wedges together in a glass. From there, add 1.5 oz Tequila Cazadores Extra Añejo, .75 oz Grand Marnier, and .75 oz agave nectar, then shake and serve in your go-to cocktail glass. (via Cazadores)

Fig Mojito

Vanilla rum is the star of this Labor Day cocktail recipe. It mixes beautifully with figs and mint to create some endless summer feels. (via Barley & Sage)

NOLET Silver Gin + Soda

Pour up 1.5 oz NOLET Silver Ginand4 oz club soda (or seltzer... or sparkling mineral water, your choice) into a glass with ice and garnish with a lemon peel for an easy weekend-friendly sipper. (via NOLET)

Mango reigns supreme in the summertime, which is exactly why this cocktail mixed with ginger ale and rum is perfect for ending the season. (via Signature Concoctions)

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Lead image viaMixop.

This post has been updated.

We can tell summer is on it's way because we're seeing temps rise quickly. To keep cool this weekend and fight the heat index, we are just planning on kicking back with some *seriously* cooling cocktails. There are tons of amazing cocktail recipes, such as delicious daiquiri cocktails and extraordinary mojito cocktails to choose from, but if you are a little more picky and want a mix of bubbles and fruit, then Palomas are the boozy drink for you.

Whether you stay classic with tequila or mix it up with some bourbon or gin, you need to check out these 15 unique Paloma cocktails that are perfect for sipping on at yourpool party.

Frozen Paloma

Step up your Paloma cocktail recipe game by turning this classic cocktail into an icy slush. It’s perfect for an afternoon by the pool or your next backyard barbeque. (via Blender Happy)

Mango Paloma Cocktail

Mango is the fruit of the summer, so why not put it in your favorite cocktail? Pull out this stone fruit and a little grapefruit to create this zesty and colorful drink. (via Summerfield Delight)

Blood Orange Bourbon Paloma

Bourbon lovers, this one’s for you! Give your Paloma cocktail recipe a little boost with a touch of bourbon and some blood orange for a citrusy touch. (via Girl in the Little Red Kitchen)

Spicy Paloma

Beat the summer heat by adding just a little more heat to this drink. Top this classic cocktail off with a jalapeño for a *lot* of flavor with just one tiny pepper. (via Alice and Lois)

Sauvignon Blanc Paloma

Wine lovers REJOICE. We have found you a cocktail that boasts the amazing flavor of white wine with the sweet-and-bitter bite of grapefruit. (via This Mama Cooks)

Pineapple Palomas

Wishing you were sitting on a tropical island? Well, now you can drink like you are! These delicious sips are sure to have you feeling the ocean breeze. (via Lemon Tree Dwelling)

Boozy Paloma Popsicles with Tequila, Grapefruit, and Lime

Cocktail pops are popping up everywhere, but this recipe is sure to stand out. Topped off with a little lime, this Paloma cocktail recipe will easily become your summertime go-to. (via Feast in Thyme)

Blood Orange Thyme Paloma Cocktail

Herbs in a cocktail are always a good idea. Add a savory side to your robust drink by adding some thyme and salting the rim of your highball glass. Trust us, you won’t be able to resist this drink. (via Salt and Wind)

Paloma Mimosas

Sunday would not be complete without this cocktail. As much as we love the classic mimosa, this drink brings a whole new side to brunch. Whip it up to leave your BFFs asking for another glass (and the recipe, of course). (via Delish)

Hibiscus Paloma

Floral flavors? Yes, please! This tart recipe creates a seriously delicious drink that has amazing aromas and gorgeous colors. (via Honey and Birch)

Strawberry Chamomile Paloma

Tea-infused cocktails aren’t everyone’s favorite cuppa, but this one won’t disappoint. Grab your shopping bag and head to your local market to find the fresh ingredients that make up this lovely Paloma cocktail recipe. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Honey Paloma

Talk about a seriously yummy and sweet sip. This recipe switches simple syrup for honey to give a little extra flavor to a drink that you will want to savor every single day. (via The Little Epicurean)

Sparkling Rosemary Paloma

Rosemary cocktails are a serious game-changer. This yummy cocktail only takes 12-minutes to make and is perfect for your next girl’s night in. (via Style Me Pretty)

Spicy Raspberry Paloma

It’s time to spice things up. Mix together this bright and colorful drink for the perfect summer sip. Pro Tip: Make a full pitcher, then bring it to your next beach day for you and your gals. (via Heather Christo)

Classic Paloma

We couldn’t leave out the drink that started it all. This amazing concoction is one that should be in everyone’s cocktail armory. It should probably even be the star, we think. (via BS in the Kitchen)

It’s time to get sipping! Follow us on Pinterest for more summery cocktail ideas.

Lead image via Half Baked Harvest.

This post has been updated.

As if surprise dropping an extra 15 songs for The Tortured Poets Departmentwasn't enough, Taylor Swift fans are getting another new song this summer thanks to Gracie Abrams' new album The Secret of Us. The Eras Tour opener revealed the collaboration when she dropped her album track list May 13, and needless to say, the internet went crazy. The song will be released with the full album on June 21, 2024.

Image via Gracie Abrams/Instagram

"Us. Feat @taylorswift," Gracie Abrams said in an Instagram story. "All I can tell you for now is that some of the most fun I've ever had in my whole entire life was writing this song together. Hands down. I am currently smiling and sweating thinking about it and I'll never get over the shock of seeing this one on the tracklist. You know how I feel."

Taylor Swift has been teasing "Us" since the release of TTPD thanks to a notebook with "Us" written across it — both at the library installation and in the "Fortnight" music video.

Gracie Abrams has talked about how much she loves Taylor Swift throughout her entire career, and the two quickly became friends! Gracie showed up to Taylor's birthday, and even got to sing her hit song "I Miss You, I'm Sorry" with Taylor during the Eras Tour after her opening set got canceled during the July 1 show in Cincinnati, Ohio.

“My set was canceled for safety reasons,” Gracie says on The Tonight Show With Jimmy Fallon. “Then Taylor texted me being like, ‘Hey, come out with me and do ‘I Miss You, I’m Sorry?” We ran it one time in her room and then did it there. I blacked out.”

“It’s a real masterclass to watch her do what she does,” she continues. “I felt like I was at college for this job. I watched every single one of her shows that I was lucky enough to open. I watched from every place possible in each stadium, just trying to pick up on how she’s able to do what she does.”

Are you excited for the new Gracie Abrams x Taylor Swift collab? I love Gracie's new song "Risk" so I can't wait to hear "Us"!

Lead image via Gracie Abrams/Instagram

Nothing beats brunch, especially for a special occasion like Mother’s Day. Letting mom have a few extra hours to luxuriate over bacon and coffee is a treat she’s sure to appreciate. Adding a delicious, decadent cocktail to your brunch menu makes the meal extra special. Looking to step up your Mother's Day brunch game? Here are morning-friendly cocktail recipes for the next time you want to impress all the mamas in your life.

Brunch Cocktails To Make For Mother's Day 2024

Pomegranate White Tea Fizz

For the more health-conscious, a cocktail packed with pomegranates and infused with white tea. (via Brit + Co)

"Speak Now" Spritz

Get in the Swiftie spirit with a Taylor Swift cocktail that's sure to please all your girlfriends. This one has plum liqueur and Prosecco for the ultimate flavor combo — and you can't forget about the edible glitter! (via The Spritz Effect for Brit + Co)

Summer Paloma

Nothing says summer like an easy breezy brunch cocktail, and this Paloma has the yummiest mix of grapefruit soda and tequila. I like a little extra lime juice, so don't be afraid to go crazy ;). (via Brit + Co)

Cadbury Cocktail

If Mom has a sweet tooth, you *have* to whip up this dessert cocktail. It's the perfect Mother's Day treat! (via Brit + Co)

Easy Irish Coffee

Instead of getting brunch cocktails *and* coffee, combine them into this spiked Irish coffee. One-and-done! (via Brit + Co)

Strawberry And Rhubarb Bellinis

Everyone’s favorite morning cocktail gets an upgrade with fresh strawberries. Siri, play "Pink" by Lizzo! (via Brit + Co)

Mimosa Remix

Fresh fruit gives this Grapefruit Thyme Fizz, Cherry Orange Tequila Sunrise, and Sparkling Strawberry Mimosa that perfect touch of “homemade” that shows you care, without all the fuss of making a huge brunch. (via Brit + Co)

Citrus Mezcal Brunch Cocktails

Grab a bottle of mezcal and a variety of sliced citrus, flavored sparkling sodas, and a specialty “worm salt,” known as sal de gusano, tomake these mezcal cocktails with blood orange, grapefruit, orange, and lime. (via Brit + Co)

Bloody Mary Bar

Nothing says brunch quite like a Bloody Mary, with its array of veggies, pickled goodies and hot kick that'll get you ready for the day. Host Mother's Day Brunch with a Bloody Mary bar for everyone to DIY their faves. (via Brit + Co)

Frozen Blueberry Paloma

Serve up this refreshing and unique twist on a paloma that mixes fresh grapefruit juice, blueberries, lime juice, and a splash of tequila. Consider this the ultimate pre-summer sip. (via Half Baked Harvest for Brit + Co)

More Brunch Cocktail Ideas You'll Love

Rosa Raspberry Chocatini

Toast your mom to a job well done and a life well lived with this dessert cocktail. Mix equal parts Chilled Rosa Regale RedwithStoli Chocolat Razberi Vodka, and add a rasberry garnish.

Mango Ginger Mojito

Get mom ready for summer with this rum-based brunch cocktail. I'm obsessed with the bold and bright colors! (via Signature Concoctions)

Aperol Spritz Cocktail Recipe

Keep it simple, delicious, and warm-weather friendly with this 3-ingredient cocktail. (via Salt + Lavender)

Honey Blackberry Smash Mocktail

This refreshing mocktail is made with homemade blackberry syrup, fresh mint, and honey. Spike with her favorite liquor if you prefer to go boozy! (via Pink Owl Kitchen)

Salty Dog

Made with vodka, grapefruit juice, and a splash of club soda, this classic brunch cocktail is an easy and delicious way to celebrate mom. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Dirty Shirley Cocktail

Bring back fun childhood memories with mom by serving this grown-up version of the Shirley Temple. (via Culinary Hill)

Pink Sangria with Rosé Wine

This pretty-in-pink cocktail is perfect for a brunch crowd. Not feeling the grapefruit? Swap for your favorite berries instead. (via Barley & Sage)

Empress & Tonic

Serve this tart, refreshing, and delicious tonic to the color-loving mom. Just pour 2 oz Empress 1908 Ginand 3 oz Premium Tonic Water on ice in a rocks glass. Garnish with a grapefruit slice.

Spicy Watermelon Margaritas

Just four ingredients and fresh watermelon makes this brunch cocktail a favorite. (via Cozy Cravings)

Nole Garey for Oh So Beautiful Paper

St. Germain Brunch Cocktail

Feeling fancy? Mix St. Germain (an elderflower liqueur), Cocchi Americano and San Pellegrino Aranciata Rossa with crushed ice and you have a drink worthy of a Mediterranean view. (via Oh So Beautiful Paper)

Clamato Pineapple Michelada

Does mom love a Bloody Mary, but is looking something a little different? Try making her a Michelada, another savory-tomato-y cocktail! This recipe gives her a little sweet and a little savory — and a lot of yum!

Limoncello and Prosecco Cooler

A cocktail full of sunshiny limoncello and mint — yeah, your mom wants that. The raspberry ice cubes add an elegant touch. (via Creative Culinary)

Loving these brunch cocktails? Subscribe to our email newsletter for a dose of recipe inspiration every Sunday and check out our new B+C online cooking classes for more!

This article has been updated from a previous post published in April 2014.

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

POV: It's a hot, summer day and you're enjoying it laying out on the beach. So, just as you normally would, you reapply your sunscreen to make sure you're looking out for your skin in the midst of the high UV rays. But a couple minutes later, you catch a clips of your appearance in a mirror and realize your whole face looks like it's covered in white paint — that's called a white cast, and yes...it's extremely annoying.

Enter in our dilemma: why does sunscreen always leave a white cast? It seems like no matter how much we re-apply, it always leave a white-ish gray shadow on our skin. Instead of agonizing over this all summer, we've asked the skincare experts which sunscreen to grab and how to avoid this pesky problem! Keep reading for the scoop on the best sunscreens without white cast for your everyday use!

What is white cast?

Photo by RF._.studio/PEXELS

White cast is the annoying grayish, white color that some sunscreens leave behind after you've applied them. And sometimes no matter how much you rub them in or blend them, it simply will not go away. Tosin Eyikogbe, MSN and skin expert gave us the full explanation on this. She says, "The active ingredients in mineral sunscreen, zinc and titanium oxide, are large rough, white particles. Because of this, when applied to the skin, traditional mineral sunscreen tend to leave an unwanted, ashy, white or grayish appearance."

Dr. Praveen Guntipalli also weighed in on this topic by saying, "These ingredients are effective at blocking UV radiation but can leave a visible white residue on the skin, especially if the particles are not finely milled or if the formulation lacks certain tinting additives that help the product blend into various skin tones." So, essentially, these sunscreens are working, but they end up leaving particles behind on the skin, ultimately causing a white cast to appear.

How can I avoid white cast?

Photo by Karolina Grabowska/PEXELS

There are a few ways to avoid this problem. You can try a different formula, stay away from certain ingredients, or just try to blend it in as much as possible. A different formula or type of sunscreen will definitely help with this, as mineral sunscreens are more likely to cause the white cast, whereas chemical sunscreens don't. Eyikogbe says, "Chemical sunscreens, which contain organic compounds that are absorbed by the skin then convert UV rays to heat that is released, are offered in a variety of formats and are often paired with moisturizers to increase a light weight feel."

We love the sound of that! She adds, "These formulas typically don’t leave a white cast, however chemical sunscreens aren’t ideal for all skin types, as they can clog pores and irritate the skin, and compounds including oxybezone and octinoxate are harmful to marine animals and can damage fragile coral reef ecosystems."

What ingredients should you look for in your sunscreen to avoid white cast?

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

If you have sensitive skin like me, then you know you always have to double check labels and look into ingredients lists before buying products; especially when it comes to sun care. I'm very sensitive to certain ingredients and perfumes so I have to look carefully. We asked skincare experts what their thoughts were on what ingredients to keep an eye out for and this is what they had to say!

Eyikogbe says,"Mineral sunscreens, which typically contain inorganic compounds, titanium or zinc dioxide, can traditionally leave the notorious 'white cast' due to the reflection of the metal oxides on the skin. But there are newer formulas that have eradicated the old-school white cast and provide excellent mineral protection without a white cast."

Board certified dermatoligst Dr. Divya Sachdev says, "I highly recommend tinted zinc oxide-based pure mineral sunscreens with an SPF of 30 or higher. These sunscreens are not only effective at protecting against UV rays but also include antioxidants like vitamin C, green tea, and raspberry seed oil that help combat free radicals from oxidative damage caused by sunlight."

What are some helpful tips for sunscreen?

Photo by Mikhail Nilov/PEXELS

If you're looking for something that will blend in seamlessly into your skin, and easily go into your daily routine then I'd really recommend tinted moisturizer with SPF or a CC cream. One of my favorites is the Tatcha SPF which really blends into the skin for a nice glow. I'd recommend using this daily!

Dr. Sachdev says, "Remember, it’s crucial to reapply sunscreen every 2-3 hours when spending time in the sun, wear sun-protective clothing such as wide-brim hats and sunglasses, and maintain a diet rich in antioxidants to enhance your skin's defense against sun damage." Duly noted, doctor!

Best Sunscreens Without White Cast To Shop Right Now

Photo via Sephora​

Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen

The Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen gives your skin the nicest glow, and it's the perfect base for your makeup. It's definitely a crowd favorite for good reason!

Blendability: 5/5 Doesn't pill and blends so nicely!

Underneath Makeup: 5/5 It's glowy perfection!

Protection: 4/5 It's lower in SPF, but still does the job!

EltaMD UV Elements

Dr. Divya Sachdev, "Favorites of mine include EltaMD UV Elements and Suntegrity 5-in-1 Natural Moisturizing Face Sunscreen, which avoid any white cast. These tinted formulations also contain iron oxides that provide additional protection against UV damage and blue light exposure." I'm a big fan of the EltaMd sunscreen, and feel like it always makes my skin feel light and not too heavy with products!

Blendability: 5/5 I love how creamy it is!

Underneath Makeup: 5/5 Feels like a moisturizer!

Protection: 4/5 A higher SPF is always better, but this is still great!

Photo via Sephora

Summer Fridays SPF Milk Sunscreen

Another sunscreen that I looove is the Summer Fridays SPF Milk Sunscreen. Every time I let one of my friends use it, I never get it back because it is that good. Genuinely is so milky and smooth, and it looks amazing underneath makeup or other skincare products!

Blendability: 5/5 Blends beautifully!

Underneath Makeup: 5/5 Doesn't feel and works as a primer!

Protection: 3/5 It isn't as high in SPF as I would like, but it works nonetheless!

Innisfree Daily SPF Broad Specturm SPF 36

My personal favorite is the Innisfree Daily SPF, which blends in like moisturizer! It's genuinely so thin and creamy!

Blendability: 5/5 Blends into your skin within seconds.

Underneath Makeup: 5/5 Genuinely could be a primer for how well it sits.

Protection: 3/5 Wish it was higher SPF, but it's so thin, so it makes sense!

ColorScience Sunforgetabble Face Shield

We asked Tosin Eyikogbe, and she says, "My personal favorite at the moment is ColorScience Sunforgettable Face Shield Flex SPF 50, which contains all mineral active ingredients and comes in four shades that cover a wide range of skin tones. It has a light weight feel and provides a luminous and even skin tone. A lot of patients have told me it has replaced their need for foundation!"

Blendability: 5/5 Melts into the skin!

Underneath Makeup: 5/5 Blends in with your foundation and base great!

Protection: 5/5 It's high in SPF so definitely a winner!

Looking for more skincare advice? Be sure to sign up for our weekly email newsletter!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Header image via Sephora

Last month I chatted Amanda Montell by mentioning the glaring loneliness epidemic that's taken over lately. While we had a great conversation about overcoming our overthinking, it really got me wondering: how did we get here?

According to a study conducted by the U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy, the pandemic and our increased reliance on technology seems to be the source of the collective social decline we’re experiencing. In 2022 — two years out from the 2020 lockdowns — only 39% of adults reported feeling emotionally close to others. For those of us who consider ourselves to be introverts, this may feel par for the social course — but it really isn't.

There's potential for greater health concerns here, both mentally and physically. Dr. Murthy discovered that a prolonged decline in social connection with others “...can increase your risk of heart disease by 29% and risk of stroke by 32%.” That’s no laughing matter, especially if heart disease runs in your family like it does in mine.

It’s something Eric Liu, CEO of Citizen University elaborated on during an episode of NPR’sMorning Edition podcast last year. He said, “When you are alone and disconnected, there’s more stress, there’s more inflammation, there’s more anxiety.” And while some of us prefer our own company, statistics show that's not always the healthiest choice for us in the long run.

To understand all this even more, I spoke with Licensed Perinatal Mental Health & Trauma Therapist Becca Reed, LCSW, PMH-C. Together, we broke down how we can combat the loneliness epidemic and positively affect our health at the same time. Here's what I learned!

How prevalent is the loneliness epidemic actually?

Image via Liza Summer/Pexels

I've joked with my sister that there seems to be a change in the way people interact with each other since the pandemic, but there's some truth to it. Reed says, "Since the pandemic began, I've observed a marked increase in feelings of loneliness across various age groups. What’s particularly interesting is the depth of loneliness people have expressed, even after moving back into engaging in normal activities."

Think about the last time you went to the grocery store — did it seem like some people exist in their own worlds without apparent regard for others? It could very well be a symptom of this very epidemic. "Many of my clients have reported feeling disconnected not just from others, but also from parts of themselves. The pandemic disrupted our regular social habits and created a void that many are still learning how to fill," explains Reed.

Does social media play a role in the way we perceive introversion and loneliness?

Image via Arina Krasnikova/Pexels

I can't completely shun social media because it's introduced me to different brands, people, and even my career as a journalist. However, I've also wondered if social media has a major influence on the way we think and interact with the world around us — especially in regards to introversion and loneliness. Reed believes there's more to it than that.

"Our lifestyles and societal values greatly influence how we view introversion and loneliness. For instance, highly individualistic cultures, like in the U.S., often celebrate extroversion," she says before adding, "This celebration can make quieter, introverted ways of engaging with the world seem less valuable."

This may pose an issue for those who are always busy and aren't actively interacting with others beyond a surface level. Reed says, "Additionally, our busy modern lifestyles are filled with long work hours and personal commitments. This can leave little room for deep, sustained social interactions. As a result, those who may not reach out actively can feel further isolated."

What are some signs that someone is experiencing loneliness?

Image via Ivan Samkov/Pexels

Dr. Murthy also told NPR, “Some people react to loneliness by withdrawing and getting quiet. Others react to loneliness by becoming irritable and angry, and they may lash out more” before adding “...sometimes we need somebody else to tell us, ‘Hey, you’ve been withdrawing more’ to help us understand we might actually be dealing with loneliness.”

This is something that Reed also reiterated. She says, "Signs of loneliness frequently include significant changes in mood and behavior. This might look like increased irritability, persistent sadness, or withdrawal from usual activities" while "Physically, loneliness might manifest through disrupted sleep patterns or a change in appetite."

From personal experience, I've been known to dissociate if I'm feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or upset so I'm very familiar with exacerbating any loneliness I've felt by withdrawing. This also resulted in spending a lot of days in my early 20s sleeping when I wasn't working or remaining in my room with the door locked.

"If you notice a loved one seeming unusually quiet, canceling plans more frequently, or expressing feelings of emptiness, they might be experiencing loneliness," warns Reed.

How can we combat the loneliness epidemic in our daily interactions?

Image via Pavel Danilyuk/Pexels

If you've noticed that you're being affected by the loneliness epidemic, there are different ways to combat it. Reed says, "Small daily interactions can be very impactful to combating loneliness. Simply making eye contact, sharing a smile with a stranger, or having a quick chat with a neighbor can foster a sense of connection." This sounds so Starbucks and Bookstore-coded for those of us who don't want to feel overwhelmed by anything grand.

At the same time, Reed says there are things we can do in our personal relationships to help us start feeling a sense of community again. "Reaching out regularly to friends and family through calls, messages, and face-to-face interactions is essential. Building a community around shared interests, can also help bridge the isolation gap," she shares.

Is the loneliness epidemic going to be a prolonged problem, or is it possible to turn around?

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Like other things, it can seem like the loneliness epidemic won't get any better. But, Reed wants you to have hope. "While it's possible the impact of the pandemic on social interactions could be a prolonged issue, humans are inherently driven to connect." Though she says, "The pandemic has intensified social anxieties and shifted communication habits."

This can look like people finding it difficult to interact with others the way they used to (hi social anxiety). Still, that doesn't mean we have to approach things as if there's nothing to look forward to in terms of interacting with others. Reed says, "People are finding new ways to engage with each other as we be come more aware of the impacts of loneliness and actively work towards building stronger, more resilient community networks. This adaptability is a positive sign that we're moving towards more interaction again, despite the challenges."

All we can do is turn lemons into lemonade as we continue to find new normals that support our lifestyles, communication, and connection needs.

Has the loneliness epidemic impacted you? Let us know in the comments and follow the conversation on Facebook.

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