In the final installment of the Suicide Awareness Month series, Dr. George Vergolias explores the often-overlooked issue of male loneliness. Highlighting the 2023 advisory from U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy, Dr. Vergolias discusses the severe physical and psychological impacts of social disconnection, likening it to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

He delves into the unique challenges men face, from cultural norms around masculinity to the decline of friendships over time, and how these contribute to loneliness and increased suicidal risks. Dr. Vergolias offers actionable strategies for addressing this epidemic, such as normalizing male vulnerability, redesigning friendships, promoting intergenerational mentorship, and encouraging community engagement. This episode provides critical insights and practical steps to help mitigate loneliness among men, fostering better mental health and well-being.

00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer

01:15 Episode Overview and Previous Content Recap

01:56 The Loneliness Epidemic Among Men

02:22 Surgeon General's Advisory on Loneliness

02:42 Impact of Social Disconnection

03:50 Survey Findings on Male Loneliness

07:03 Cultural Norms and Masculinity

08:11 Decline of Male Friendships Over Time

11:05 Work and Fatherhood Pressures

12:30 Digital Disconnection

15:38 Relationship Status and Social Support

18:37 Connection Between Loneliness and Suicide

21:45 Actionable Strategies to Combat Loneliness

30:14 Conclusion and Call to Action

About the Host – The Unstressed Exec

Meet Dr. George Vergolias — a clinical and forensic corporate psychologist turned executive coach with 20+ years at the intersection of leadership, mental resilience, and high performance. George has advised Fortune 500 companies, guided C-suite leaders through crisis, and coached high-achievers to reclaim clarity, calm, and purpose without losing their edge.

On The Unstressed Exec, George brings powerful insights from the boardroom to the mic — helping leaders navigate stress, burnout, conflict, and transformation with practical tools and no-BS wisdom.

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