Signs Of Isolation And Loneliness And How To Address The Issues “Isolation” and “loneliness” are different. Each term has a different meaning. In many cases, isolation leads to loneliness and in some cases, loneliness will worsen the isolation. Both conditions are common in people who are suffering from either anxiety or depression. If you are struggling with such issues, it is better first to understand them and then find a solution for it. Both the conditions can be adequately addressed with the help of a professional. If you are living in Ottawa, you should look for a clinic where you can receive proper Psychotherapy in Ottawa. If you are suffering from social isolation or struggling with loneliness, you should know the following things.
The Difference Between Isolation and Loneliness: Social isolation is the result of having little or no contact with other people in life. It is a distinctly physical state and can occur over a long or short period. Here are the typical signs of isolation.
Not going out and preferring to stay home most of the time Avoiding any interpersonal interaction Feeling extremely uncomfortable in social situations and thus avoiding them
Isolation has the potential to boost negative emotion in a person, such as increased sadness, loneliness, and restlessness. Isolation can cause loneliness,
but it is not necessary that both occur at the same time. Those who suffer from social anxiety or agoraphobia often find themselves socially isolated. For example, a person who has agoraphobia, often finds it difficult to leave the house on some days.
While isolation is a distinctly physical state, loneliness is an emotional state. It is more about feeling alone or separated from the rest of the world. One of the reasons for loneliness to occur in isolation, but it can also be caused by other reasons such as breakups, moving to a new location, divorce, or death of a loved one. Those who find making new friends difficult often go through the frequent feeling of being alone. A person suffering from loneliness is at higher risk of depression, anxiety, addictions, and phobias. The effects of isolation and loneliness on mental health: Several studies have found a connection between isolation and its adverse impact on mental health. In some cases, when a person is suffering from an anxiety disorder or depression, isolation can worsen the symptoms.
The lengthy phase of loneliness can also lead to different types of health-related issues. Spending too much time alone lead to reduced cognitive development in young people and even put them at risk of developing bad habits. Other signs of isolation and loneliness are insomnia or disturbed sleep pattern, increased stress, drug and alcohol abuse, alteration in brain function, and suicidal thoughts. It is also important to know that both isolation and loneliness can be the symptoms of mental health issues, such as:
Anxiety disorder Depression Bipolar disorder Post-traumatic stress (PTSD) Borderline personality
Summary: Isolation or loneliness should not be ignored as ignorance can lead to other serious problems. Professionals should address these issues. If you are struggling with these issues, then you should look for a reputed clinic in your area where you can get better help. Psychotherapy helps you to have a better future. It reaches to the roots of the problems and provides required clarity and guidance for a healthy future. If you are looking for Family Counselling in Ottawa, then the same clinic can cater to your requirement.