Can teaching mindfulness through smartphones cure America's loneliness problem?

A new study suggests smartphones, if used the right way, can be a great platform to teach people how to reduce loneliness and social isolation. (Konstantin Postumitenko/Dreamstime/TNS)

When it comes to the growing problem of loneliness in America, many have cited one main culprit: smartphones. They interrupt conversation. Constantly distract us. Decrease face-to-face interaction. 

But a new study suggests those same phones, if used the right way, can be a great platform to teach people how to reduce loneliness and social isolation.