Alone...
The reasons for loneliness and isolation are many: Sometimes there just isn't any family to speak of. At other times, the individual has to disconnect due differing or toxic familial communication styles that can capsize meaningful connection. Still others socially isolate due to anxiety and thus avoid and cancel experiences that might present opportunities for social growth and well being. While other reasons can include loss of loved ones, mental health, residing in a distant location, or physical challenges precluding one's ability to join with others. It can feel as if the world is closing in...
Clients have often presented over the years as painfully isolated, which presents a danger to psychological well being. Both mental health and metabolic health are affected by social isolation and are associated with a variety of adverse repercussions according the the Center's for Disease Control and The Journal of gerontology to mention a few and who have produced studies on the topic. Depression, anxiety and heightened suicide risk are stalwart's of social isolation. Cardiovascular health and immune function raise poor health outcomes for sufferers of social isolation. The American Journal of Epidemiology reports in a study that social isolation is associated with higher risk of premature mortality. Studies on the topic abound...What to do?
- 1. Self-Care There are a plethora of self-care exercises with which one can engage. The methods are tried and true, but the depression that accompanies loneliness and isolation can often paralyze the clients I've treated.
- 2. Professional Help is another option for those who have mental health coverage. Highly recommended, it provides the client with a professional with whom the client can partner. Self-care exercises such as deep breathing, music, hobbies are made easier when partnered with a professional, who can hold client's accountable. A clinician can also help to uncover the root causes of the isolation and assist with resolving unfinished business from the past or take a deeper look at life style choices such as dietary interventions, exercise, sleep and timing, which can cause a deepening of distress.
- 3. Belief System: Finally, there's the spiritual relief for believers: Let's take a quick look at a Bible verse that I use in the session room when individuals present as under-resourced relative to family and friends. Matthew 12:47-12:50, when addressing Jesus, "Someone told Him, "Look, Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to speak to You." 48 But Jesus replied, "Who is My mother, and who are My brothers?" 49 Pointing to His disciples, He said, "here are My mother and My brothers. 50 For whoever does the will of My Father in heaven is My brother and sister and mother."
- Are you spiritually connected? Did you grow up with a belief system into which you can tap your energies? Is there someone you know that you can accompany to a church, synagogue or mosque?
4. Look to Motivational and/or Inspirational Speakers
Pick and listen to one every morning. Their names abound. One recent individual that I have tapped into is David Goggins, a man with a troubled past, who could now be touted as a Superhero. Look him up!
Rather than operating from a position of powerlessness, make a move. Take a hard look at one of the above options and take action. Action is always the answer. Once an individual makes a move, other measures follow.
Think in terms of a chunking down goals into bite size pieces. Make it easy and attractive, as James Clear points out in his best selling book Atomic Habits. Target a goal and track the progress. If you're struggling with a goal, seek out professional help. Don't sit in the pain anymore.
A good result starts with taking one step at a time but take the step.
Until next time...