How are loneliness and social isolation related

Loneliness and social isolation can be easily confused.  Loneliness is the feeling of being alone, whereas social isolation is a lack of social connections.  Social isolation and loneliness have caught the attention of people all around the world since the COVID-19 pandemic, but these can be concerning outside of the pandemic as well. 

Social connections can be found in the society in which one lives.  For example, a 17-year-old, Pacific Islander, identifying as a nonbinary and queer person, may find social connections at their school, LGBTQI+ support group, doctor’s office, and in the theater company in which they participate.  A 61-year-old, Black female and the lesbian identifying person may find social connections at her library, local community center, workplace, and church.  Social isolation happens when something disrupts these social connections.  When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, people were asked to isolate or lockdown within their own homes.  Many persons found ways to connect via video, phone, and chat; many still felt isolated.  This isolation leads to loneliness for many people.  Loneliness occurred for persons living by themselves or persons who lived with family, friends, or roommates. 

Social isolation and loneliness can have many health risks.  The Center for Disease Control and Prevention states that those who are socially isolated and lonely for extended periods of time are at risk for premature death at rates possibly as high as persons who are obese, smoke, or do not have access or chose to have any physical activity.  These are not the only health risks that loneliness and social isolation pose.  The American Cancer Society has found that the risk for stroke and coronary heart disease goes up.  The likelihood of depression and anxiety also increases. 

If you are feeling socially isolated or lonely, there are ways to combat this feeling.  Find something that you can be a part of by joining an interest group or club.  If you feel lonely or socially isolated, reach out to a counselor or therapist as people are lonely for many different reasons.  Getting to the bottom of your reasons for loneliness may help you to feel better.  Lastly, try contributing or giving back to your community.  If you are able, find a cause you care about and volunteer your time.  There, you are likely to make connections and battle loneliness and social isolation.