H E A LT H
S O C I A L I S O L AT I O N AND YOUR MENTAL HEALTH Loneliness is linked to a number of negative health outcomes. Here’s how to counteract the downsides of staying physically distant from loved ones during the pandemic.
P
hysical distancing and self-isolation are crucial parts of the plan to reduce
the spread of coronavirus. Keep in mind however, that being separated from friends, colleagues and extended family members can have a negative effect on your psychological health. As Ronel Groenewald, a counselling psychologist at Mediclinic Kimberley explains, “Humans are psychologically and biologically ‘programmed’ to crave social networks. When social interactions – no matter
CLICK TO DOWNLOAD ZOOM Ironically, during this time of
to feel empathy for others.
how casual – are severely
uncertainty and crisis, we’re unable
curtailed, it’s not surprising that
to reach out for physical support.
develop and maintain a good
mental health suffers.”
“It’s natural to want to hug and hold
physical exercise regime,”
loved ones during times like these.
Groenewald says. “Working out
Public Health Alliance, anxiety,
Not being able to give or receive this
boosts your serotonin levels and
apathy and loneliness are
type of support can be detrimental to
you can do it at home if necessary.
some of the mental health
your mental health and exacerbate
Starting a meditation routine or
consequences that will persist
feelings of isolation and loneliness,”
mindfulness practice can also help
long after the pandemic ends.
Groenewald cautions. “Make every
reduce stress and improve feelings
In addition, increased feelings
effort to stay in touch with your
of positivity and gratitude.”
of depression and stress may
family, friends and community using
increase people’s vulnerability
digital technology [such as Zoom or
maintaining your normal
to poor health. “Social isolation
Skype], making a video call or simply
social routine online as much
should not become the norm,”
picking up the phone.”
as possible provides social
According to the European
says Groenewald. “In fact, we
What you say when you’re
“This is also a good time to
Groenewald adds that
connectivity. “It also promotes
should rather talk about physical
connecting with others is also key.
a feeling of togetherness, which
distancing because even if you’re
Talking about your feelings of anxiety
good for mental health at a time
not physically engaging with other
and stress can help you feel less
when you can’t be in physical
people, there are ways to maintain
alone. On the other hand, offering
contact with others.”
a safe distance while remaining an
a listening ear to someone who is
active member of society.”
struggling can strengthen your ability
This article first appeared on www.mediclinicinfohub.co.za on August 4, 2020
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