A Connection to Each Other Written By: Joan Monahan, LPC, ACS The month of February brought us a reminder of the “love” we might have for individuals we consider to be close to us. However, 2020 brought a technical connection to us all that served as less than a personal one. The year 2020 had this technical connection to become a quick way to learn virtually, connecting with others. Thus, leaving many to cope with being disconnected but connected to the computer rather quickly. The Zoom platform quickly catapulted many of us into this new, primary way of connecting with friends, family, and colleagues. Our brain desires to connect to others physically. Unfortunately, this was no longer a viable option for many of us. Our brains have certain chemicals that are released when we feel that human to human contact. Why are relationships so critical to our brains and well-being? It has to do with our need to bond with others, creating a sense of safety and security within our minds and bodies. Humans have always required a connection and attention of some kind, even if it is negative. What? Yes, even negative attention wins out here! So, will humans adapt to the way life is now? Of course, most likely, however, not without some consequence to be had. Humans are amazing creatures and have accomplished tremendous things so that they can overcome many hardships. We all have done this despite a horrific pandemic coming to America, and we all have made the best out of a daunting situation. Humans remain resilient and can overcome many obstacles. The intrinsic ability to connect to other humans is such a priceless characteristic that humans can always provide to each other. I am optimistic that the future will allow this for all. I have witnessed meaningful interactions during 2020, i.e., frontline workers connecting with their patients in a heartfelt way,
^ Joan Monahan, LPC, ACS connects with a group pre-pandemic. Image courtesy of the Northern Virginia Daily
people dedicating their time and money without any hesitation, and virtual hugs. These emotional connections have been able to occur regardless of the uncertainty around us. Computers have helped us tremendously during 2020; however, I believe that our connections to technology remove another factor and realization, We Need to Connect to Others. Sure, the internet and Zoom offer this opportunity; however, this was not what the attachment theorists meant when they published studies related to brain development in infants. For example, it feels good to hold a hand, hug a loved one, and see a tear in real-time. Priceless gifts I believe we could all agree on and something a computer, sorry, will never replace.
