Walk-and-talk group aims to fight loneliness among men

Social Isolation and Loneliness Crisis - The report highlights a growing crisis of loneliness and social isolation, particularly among men in America [1] - Research indicates that 15% of men report having no close friends [4] - The Surgeon General advisory states loneliness increases the risk of premature death by 26%, comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day [4] - More than half of Gen Z, Millennials, and Gen X experience loneliness, and almost half of Baby Boomers do as well [10] - A Gallup poll showed that 25% of men ages 15 to 34 felt lonely a lot, compared to 18% of women in the same age group [14] Addressing the Issue - The "Walking, Talking, Men" group in Central Park aims to facilitate connections and address loneliness among men [2] - The podcast "Man of the Year" suggests men find a "third place" to connect with others who share similar interests [5] - The podcast advises men to follow the "TCS" rule: Text weekly, call monthly, see each other quarterly [6] - The report mentions cultural messages discourage men from needing close friendships or being emotionally expressive [11] - The "Walking, Talking, Men" group has expanded nationwide, with sign-ups from multiple states after media coverage [17][18]