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Abby Tokar

Caged In: How Isolation Affects the Human Psyche

Written by: Abby Tokar

Edited by: Wynn Ng



Since the beginning of time, the one feeling we as humans share is loneliness, or the feeling of isolation. Not often do we come across another who hasn’t felt secluded in some capacity, because the human experience involves burdening experiences and emotions, just as it also comes with the joys of companionship. We may share the intricacies of life together, but often it can feel like we are wandering on this treacherous journey alone. Despite the multitudes of people around us sharing similar experiences amongst each other, our minds aren’t exactly known for coming to the most reasonable conclusions. Thus, emotions that may or may not be rational occur. We all in one way or another have experienced some form of feeling isolated, and this common ordeal poses negative implications in a variety of ways.

Although “loneliness” and “isolation” are synonymous, their meanings somewhat

diverge. Loneliness is considered to be the distressing feeling of being alone, or separated from others. On the contrary, isolation has more to do with a lack of people around us, and generally not having people to interact with or go to when in need. (“Loneliness and Social Isolation,2024). Isolation frequently results in feelings of loneliness, and experiencing loneliness – in some circumstances – can cause one to isolate themselves as well. Some things that can lead to experiencing isolation are social media use, health issues, enduring abuse, being a member of a marginalized community, and low socioeconomic status. Identifying as a member of the LGBTQ+ community may also contribute to feelings of loneliness.

Furthermore, there have also been more recent studies suggesting a connection between intersectionality and loneliness (Yang, 2023). The causes of these negative sentiments differ per individual, and just as our emotions are, the reasons behind experiencing loneliness are quite nuanced as well. According to Dr. Hollmann of Brown Medicine & the Rhode Island Medical Society, caregiver responsibility, traumatic events, developing an illness that makes it more difficult to maintain social connections, and even any major life changes can all lead to someone isolating themselves socially. Isolation impacts both a person’s physical and mental health. There is over a 25% increased risk of significant health issues such as heart attacks, depression, stroke, diabetes, and dementia, all caused by social isolation or loneliness (Berg, 2023). The American Medical Association deems loneliness to be a public health issue, as there are a number of detrimental consequences from social isolation, as enumerated by the above.

Fortunately, there are warning signs you can look out for when it comes to isolation—whether it’s for a child, a friend, any loved one, or even for yourself. Recognizing

these signs can prevent the situation from increasing in severity, making it easier to manage and treat. These indications can be one’s relationship status, the number of activities they participate in, how often one converses with their friends and family, and quality of relationships (Swaim, 2022). Just checking in on someone every so often and making sure that they’re doing alright is ample work. We all experience these feelings, and being there for each other, though it seems like a small step, can make all the difference in each others’ lives.

If you or someone you know is experiencing isolation or loneliness, there are ways to

alleviate those detrimental thought patterns and cope with the situation. For example, if you’re feeling isolated, perhaps getting an animal can help fill that void and comfort you, in the ways that matter. Video calling friends and family, especially if they or you have moved, also sets a positive precedent in healing, because finding ways to stay connected to the people we love is a beneficial coping mechanism in healing feelings of isolation. Additionally, as for meeting new people to surround yourself with, exploring options for clubs or communities that involve your interests will also help satiate a lack of connection in one’s life (Swaim, 2022). Even going out and volunteering for different organizations and causes you support is a great way to meet those with belief systems aligned with yours, potentially fostering strong interrelatedness, and consequently, relationships and intimacy.

Although there are certain ways to relieve social isolation and feelings of loneliness,

sometimes the approaches outlined can’t fully palliate long-term effects of isolation. In more

severe scenarios, seeking out professional support is advisable. Being separated from people for an extended period of time can lead to acute consequences, such as bouts of anxiety when speaking to others, an overall aversion to human interaction, a pessimistic affect about one’s worth, and intense loneliness. A qualified therapist or mental health professional may be able to help address underlying traumas that possibly have contributed to seeking isolation, low self-esteem, and depressive states. In addition, they also are in a position to assist in teaching skills that would aid in communication and conflict resolution in a healthy manner (Swaim, 2022).

This life isn’t easy, to say the least, and most, if not all of us have undergone isolation or

loneliness one way or another. Not only is recognizing the signs vital, but stepping in when

someone needs help is as well, because you never know if or when you’ll potentially find

yourself in the same position. There are multitudes of resources available and strategies to cope with feeling alone, and we can all learn to be a little more considerate towards each other. Intimate social connection is innately salient to humankind, and practicing how to foster it keeps us all sane.


References

Berg. (2023, September 15). What doctors wish patients knew about social isolation. American Medical Association.

https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/public-health/what-doctors-wish-patients-kne

w-about-social-isolation

National Institute on Aging. (2024). Loneliness and social isolation — Tips for staying

Swaim, E. (2022, November 1). Are you socially isolated? Learn the signs and how to get

Yang, K. (2023). Loneliness and intersectionality: A progressive conditional approach. Current

Research in Behavioral Sciences, 5, 100122.

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