Before the widespread devastation of the Coronavirus pandemic, there was a smaller scale illness that has alarmingly swept the nation. It has left a lot of devastation in its wake and is being considered as a public health issue. Loneliness has long been tagged as a modern plague or an epidemic long before the coming of Covid-19. It affects both the young and the old and can inflict anyone from all walks of life. Long term loneliness has been associated with other mental illnesses such as depression, substance abuse, suicidal ideation, and increased stress. It even has physical manifestations like a weakened immune system, decreased sleep quality, and weight fluctuations. “Lack of social connection has a significant effect comparable to other leading indicators of risk for early death,” says Julianne Holt-Lunstad, Ph.D., a professor of psychology at Brigham Young University[1].
In America, 61% of the population over the age of 18 struggle with loneliness. This epidemic intersects with another pandemic, Covid-19, and is causing added anxiety to those who are already suffering from loneliness. Safety measures like social distancing and working from home are necessary life-saving measures to curb the spread of the virus, but these measures can also affect mental health.
People are wired for intimacy and to find a sense of belonging. We have a biological need to be in social groups and to seek human contact.
With most governments telling us to stay home, practice social distancing when we do go out, and to avoid crowds and enclosed spaces altogether, a lot of people are missing the opportunity to connect with others. This means we have to get creative in finding ways to “keep in touch”. How do we nurture relationships and build social networks in a time of social distancing?
- Call a friend or a family member – Give them a call to catch up, learn about each other’s lives, and see how they are coping. It is important to give them your full attention when you do call to get in touch. The quality of the conversation will depend on this, so make an effort to really listen. In turn, be open about your feelings, too. Let them know if you are struggling with loneliness. That gives your loved ones an opportunity to help you as well.
- Call a therapist or counselor – A health professional will help you untangle your thoughts and talk about your feelings in a safe space, free of judgment. If you feel that your loneliness might be best shared with someone who could give you professional help, then, by all means, set up an appointment with a professional. Your mental health matters, especially during these trying times.
- Join an online class – This will give you an opportunity to meet people even if your area is on lockdown. You don’t necessarily have to go out of your home but joining an online class will give you an opportunity to learn about something you enjoy and meet others who enjoy the same things as you.
These are extra challenging times. So be kind to yourself and seek help when possible. Do you have tips on how to prevent loneliness? Let us know in the comments. Remember to work smart and be a blessing to someone today. Stay safe and healthy!
Written by Jaie O. TheHelp
[1] The Loneliness Epidemic Has Very Real Consequences, Collins