As the 21st Surgeon General of the United States, Dr. Vivek Murthy is focused on addressing some of the most pressing public health crises facing the nation, including the youth mental health crisis and the growing epidemic of loneliness and social isolation.
How do you stay connected with your loved ones? When I miss my friends and family, I often turn to this meditation. And now I'm sharing it with all of you. #HouseCallswithVivekMurthy https://t.co/Rg9U0ciRXx pic.twitter.com/ktJHqc1fQA
— Dr. Vivek Murthy, U.S. Surgeon General (@Surgeon_General) February 7, 2024
Having served previously as the 19th Surgeon General under President Obama, Dr. Murthy knows all too well the detrimental impacts of these issues. During his prior tenure, he worked to draw national attention to the threats of stress and loneliness on Americans’ well-being.
We’ve all been in this position: afraid to reach out to someone we haven’t spoken to in a while because they “might not respond.” But what if they do? My friends and fellow officers from the @usphscc think it’s a shot worth taking! pic.twitter.com/2rE3vuj0XI
— Dr. Vivek Murthy, U.S. Surgeon General (@Surgeon_General) February 28, 2024
In his current term, Dr. Murthy is steadfast in his commitment to mental health advocacy. Recognizing the far-reaching consequences of conditions like depression and loneliness, he is actively working to integrate mental health considerations into the broader public health discourse.
His influential book, “Together: The Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely World,” has been pivotal in highlighting the significant health risks associated with loneliness. Dr. Murthy’s dual expertise as a physician and a researcher empowers him to champion the cause of mental health awareness and its critical role in overall health.
If you’re experiencing loneliness, you’re not the only one. It’s a widespread challenge. Investing in social connection can help us be healthier, happier, and more fulfilled. https://t.co/5CydqqoCDk
— Dr. Vivek Murthy, U.S. Surgeon General (@Surgeon_General) March 1, 2024
Dr. Murthy’s initiatives extend beyond his office, as he strives to improve access to mental health resources and bolster support systems across the country. He advocates for the importance of nurturing strong social bonds within communities to combat the rise of anxiety and despair.
As a leading authority on public health, Dr. Murthy leverages his platform to advance the dialogue on the importance of holistic well-being, encompassing the mental, emotional, and social facets of health. His recent efforts include a new framework for mental health and well-being in the workplace, emphasizing the importance of supportive work environments in fostering overall health. Additionally, Dr. Murthy has issued a Surgeon General Advisory to address the devastating impact of loneliness and isolation, laying out a comprehensive strategy to promote social connection.
Today marks the first Health Workforce Well-Being Day—a moment to reaffirm our commitment to caring for those who care for us. My Advisory on Health Worker Well-Being includes actions each of us can take to protect the well-being of our healers. https://t.co/iMgVLHQYPu #HWWBDay
— Dr. Vivek Murthy, U.S. Surgeon General (@Surgeon_General) March 18, 2024
Dr. Murthy’s vision is clear: to create a society where mental health is given the same priority as physical health, ensuring a healthier, more resilient, and interconnected nation. His leadership continues to inspire action towards a future where well-being is recognized as a fundamental aspect of a thriving society.
Few things are more important than the well-being of our nation’s youth. @CDCGov’s new “Action Guide for School and District Leaders” provides evidence-based practices for educators to support students’ #MentalHealth. https://t.co/6AGEiyhmOw
— Dr. Vivek Murthy, U.S. Surgeon General (@Surgeon_General) February 27, 2024
As one of the nation’s most respected voices on public health, Dr. Murthy will continue utilizing his platform to elevate the conversation around prioritizing well-being in all its forms – including mental, emotional and social dimensions of our health.
