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Dr. Ruth Westheimer, sex therapist, appointed New York's first loneliness ambassador
November 15, 2023

“Hallelujah!” Dr. Ruth Westheimer, 95, said in response to the news. “I am deeply honored and promised the Governor that I will work day and night to help New Yorkers feel less lonely.” (Frehse & Rogers, 2023)
Dr. Westheimer, a psychosexual therapist and author of 37+ books, rose to fame on TV and radio in the 80s and 90s. She left Germany when she was 10, having lost her family to the Holocaust. Last year, the Bronx resident had suggested the idea of becoming an “ambassador” to help give advice on loneliness and isolation.
Loneliness and social isolation has been a pervasive and underserved crisis, especially in recent years. Suggesting that governments need to be prepared to foster all aspects of their citizens’ mental health, Surgeon General Vivek Murthy declared loneliness an epidemic back in May. He also said that the COVID-19 pandemic likely exacerbated what was already a critical concern. (Robertson, 2023)
This honorary appointment of Dr. Westheimer spotlights the loneliness crisis and a recent emphasis from Gov. Hochul on meeting residents' aging and social needs.
Sources:
Frehse, R. & Rogers, K. (2023, November 10). CNN. Sex therapist Dr. Ruth Westheimer appointed New York state’s first loneliness ambassador. https://www.cnn.com/2023/11/10/health/loneliness-ambassador-new-york-ruth-westheimer-wellness/index.html
Robertson, N. (2023, November 10). The Hill. New York appoints famed sex therapist Dr. Ruth as state’s loneliness ambassador. https://thehill.com/homenews/state-watch/4305101-new-york-appoints-dr-ruth-loneliness-ambassador/
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