Tips to Overcome Loneliness & Isolation
By KIMBERLY BLAKER
Humans are inherently social animals who rely on interpersonal relationships for a variety of needs . When people experience healthy friendships , family dynamics , and even casual positive interactions with others , they feel a sense of belonging and satisfaction , which translates to better health . Unfortunately , when your social connections and relationships don ’ t meet your individual needs , feelings of loneliness and isolation may occur and can have potentially devastating consequences .
How do loneliness and isolation affect physical and mental health ? Feelings of loneliness and isolation can significantly impact our health , especially when these feelings occur for an extended time . Unsatisfactory social relationships or connections can lead to a host of problems for both body and mind .
Physical health can be impacted by loneliness in surprising ways . According to the Centers for Disease Control in “ Loneliness and Social Isolation Linked to Serious Health Conditions ,” loneliness can significantly impact our health . It increases the risk for premature death , strokes , heart disease , heart failure , and other cardiovascular issues at levels comparable to those who smoke , are obese , or physically inactive .
Various studies have also shown correlations between loneliness or isolation and other complications , reports Amy Novotney in “ The risks of social isolation .” These include poor sleep , decreased self-control , higher stress levels , and lower immunity , to name a few .
Mental health struggles can also develop from feeling isolated or lonely . This is true not only for adults but children and adolescents . On June 3 , 2020 , researchers published their findings in “ Rapid Systematic Review : The Impact of Social Isolation and Loneliness on the Mental Health of Children and Adolescents in the Context of COVID-19 .” Maria Elizabeth Loades et al . found depression , anxiety , and even suicidal ideation and attempts are potential issues resulting from a lack of sufficient positive and healthy social relationships .
Among older adults , extended social isolation may even increase an individual ’ s risk for dementia or cognitive decline , according to a 2019 study , “ Are loneliness and social isolation associated with cognitive decline ?” by Elvira Lara et al .
How are various demographics impacted by loneliness and isolation ? While all people require some level of personal connection and interaction , individuals and specific demographic groups may have different needs or struggles related to loneliness and isolation . Anyone can , at times , experience isolation from others . Those who lack close family or friends , have moved to a new place , differ from their community , or belong to any kind of outgroup are at risk of missing out on their desired level of social connection . Certain groups , according to the CDC , are particularly at increased risk of experiencing isolation and loneliness .
Single parents may have children around , but that isn ’ t enough to prevent feeling lonely or isolated from adults . Parenting , even with a partner , already comes with these challenges . It can be exacerbated if you ’ re also dealing with a challenging co-parenting situation or experiencing a loss .
Seniors are a group significantly affected by social isolation . Experiences like divorce , becoming a widow or widower , children growing up and moving away , retirement , chronic illness , and moving to a retirement home or care facility can increase these feelings .
People with mental illness can have symptoms reappear or increase in severity if they don ’ t have access to a support network , including friends , family , or others to connect with .
Immigrants may face language barriers , differences in customs or local dynamics , or lack established social relationships . They may also feel incredibly lonely being away from their home , culture , or family .
Members of the LGBTQ + community may be affected by discrimination and stigma . They may even experience loss of relationships with family and friends who don ’ t accept them , leaving them isolated from former social groups .
People with disabilities may experience increased isolation or feelings of loneliness depending on their individual situations . They may face barriers in communication , discrimination , stigma , or even physical impediments preventing easier engagement in social relationships .
How to reduce isolation and loneliness Unfortunately , dealing with loneliness and isolation is becoming a widespread experience . According to experts , most people from all walks of life report feeling a lack of social connection or relationships at some point in their lives . Sometimes experiencing these feelings is a consequence of larger problems like a pandemic where people need to maintain distance to stay safe .
Though it may seem impossible , isolation and loneliness do not have to become a permanent state . Even if you must be physically apart from others , there are many ways to stay connected and build new social relationships .
Even if you must be physically apart from others , there are many ways to stay connected and build new social relationships .
18 • JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2021