Simple action to combat Australia's loneliness epidemic

Technology-literate young Australians reported feeling most disconnected. (HANDOUT/WAYSIDE CHAPEL)

An epidemic sweeping Australia is targeting young people, can be as damaging to physical health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day and is increasing the risk of early death. 

It's not a plague or virus but rather loneliness, and experts say it's being exacerbated by a lack of face-to-face social interaction.