New York appoints state's first loneliness ambassador

The American state of New York has chosen Dr Ruth Westheimer, a well-known sex therapist, as its first loneliness ambassador. According to a statement released by New York governor Kathy Hochul, the appointment is to fight the 'loneliness epidemic'. Dr Westheimer will help New Yorkers deal with social isolation.

"As New York works to fight the loneliness epidemic, some help from honorary Ambassador Ruth Westheimer may be just what the doctor ordered," Governor Hochul said in a statement.

"Studies show individuals experiencing loneliness had a 32 percent higher risk of dying early and we need leaders like Dr. Ruth to help address this critical component of our mental health crisis," she added.

The suggestion of making her a loneliness ambassador came from Dr Westheimer herself in 2022 to help New Yorkers deal with loneliness and isolation, especially in post-pandemic