NEW YORK — Dr. Ruth wants to keep New Yorkers company.
Ruth Westheimer, the longtime sex therapist and talk show host, was appointed by Gov. Kathy Hochul on Thursday as the state’s honorary ambassador to loneliness after pitching the idea herself last year amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
The 95-year-old pledged to counsel New Yorkers of all ages on addressing loneliness and isolation. She is expected to speak to groups and help the state's efforts to battle mental health problems.
Westheimer responded to the news with a “hallelujah!”
The Bronx resident and Holocaust survivor added in a statement: “I am deeply honored and promised the Governor that I will work day and night to help New Yorkers feel less lonely!”
Hochul said the new title might be “just what the doctor ordered,” citing research that found individuals who feel alone face a 32 percent higher risk of dying early.
Social isolation and poor relationships are associated with multiple physical and mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, cardiovascular disorders, cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s disease and weakened immunity.
“We need leaders like Dr. Ruth to help address this critical component of our mental health crisis,” Hochul said in a statement.
