There’s been a great deal of talk about isolation (and social distancing) in the last year because of the coronavirus pandemic. And many people have experienced loneliness as a result of this isolation. In fact, isolation and loneliness often accompany each other, but not always. They are distinctly different things. Understanding how they vary from each other can help you make more sense of your situation.
Are You Isolated?
Isolation can often be thought of as being physically separated from others. You may have definitely felt isolated during the pandemic given the changes to everyday life. Having to avoid restaurants, gyms, movie theaters, performances, and social gatherings is certainly an isolating experience. But other factors may lead to isolation as well, such as health reasons, moving to a new town, or anxiety and depression.
But being physically isolated doesn’t mean that you’re lonely. You may find great satisfaction in phone calls and video chats with friends and family. Even limited social interactions may fill your need for connection.
Are You Lonely?
People don’t have to be physically isolated to have feelings of loneliness. In fact, many people often feel the most lonely when they are in groups or around others. These situations can make them feel more acutely aware of not having the connections they want or of feeling out of place.
Loneliness may be best described as an emotional sense of being alone and yearning for connection. Those who are lonely often feel as though they have no one to talk with or spend time with. They want more friends.
As with isolation, outside factors can cause loneliness. Losing a spouse or other loved one, retiring, and moving can create loneliness.
If you struggle with depression or anxiety, these conditions can also create or exacerbate loneliness. They can create unhealthy thinking patterns that keep you from reaching out to others. They can numb your emotions and lessen connection as well.
Isolation and Loneliness Interplay
As you can probably guess, both isolation and loneliness can lead to the other one. And both can have serious consequences for mental health. Human beings need interaction with each other and positive social connections. Even the most introverted people still enjoy friendships.
When someone is experiencing loneliness, however, they can end up isolating themselves for a number of reasons. They may feel like they can’t make authentic connections with others. Meeting like-minded people may seem impossible. If someone struggles with anxiety or depression, isolation is often a natural consequence.
Addressing Loneliness and Isolation
Do you recognize yourself in any of these descriptions? Have you found yourself feeling more lonely, more isolated, or both during the pandemic? Or has the pandemic only worsened a sense of loneliness and isolation that were already there?
Take careful stock of where you stand concerning these factors. It’s important to address loneliness and isolation early before they grow into larger issues.
There are steps you can take to address them on your own:
Force yourself to reach out, even if you don’t want to. Text or call a friend just to say hi. (Phone or video chats are best, but if texting is all you can do, it’s a good start!)
Find a safe way to get out of your house and be around other people. Walk through the park or go somewhere else just to enjoy watching human interactions. Make friendly comments on people’s dogs or cute kids.
Join an online support group or hobby group with active chats and Zoom calls.
As you begin to bring yourself out of isolation, you may notice an improvement in your mood and outlook.
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If you continue to struggle, though, consider therapy to help you move through your symptoms. Severe isolation and loneliness can lead to deep depression and thoughts of suicide. A therapist can evaluate you for other behavioral concerns and suggest treatment plans for depression and anxiety. Even though things may seem dark, they can definitely improve with help. Please read more about therapy and call my office to learn more.
Working with a therapist can help you take meaningful, cooperative steps forward. I’d love to talk with you soon. Please contact my office to learn more.
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