Social isolation may sound like a good thing. You don’t have to think about other people, worry about the way you look, or have to find the right words to say. While social isolation in itself isn’t bad, it can create mental health struggles for many people.
That’s because most people create social interactions even if they occasionally desire solitude. Yet, those who engage in physical distancing often struggle with more than just wanting a break from friends. During the pandemic, for example, physical distancing was a requirement to protect the health of others. Yet, the impact of social isolation on mental health was intense.
Today, we are not forced to remain far away from our family and friends. Yet, some people still encourage or favor physical distancing. Perhaps you’re ill or need to be away from friends and family for some time. When you feel cut off like this, it becomes necessary to practice self-care or strategies that help you feel and think better.
Strategies for Self-Care
In situations of physical distancing or social isolation, it is critical to have self-care strategies in place to protect one’s mental health and well-being. Several tips can help during difficult and isolating times, including the following:
- Maintain healthy habits. That includes eating a well-balanced diet and getting enough sleep. You also need to find a way to exercise and move around. Even when socially distancing for any reason, you still need to focus on the core resources your body needs to thrive.
- Create and follow a routine. Routines keep the mind moving throughout the day, give you a sense of purpose, are soothing, and can help create a sense of normalcy.
- Find ways to connect. Find ways to connect if you cannot connect with the people you live with physically, for health reasons, travel, or other situations. That may include emails or testing. You can also use social media platforms to help you reconnect with those you lost. Video conferencing is another valuable tool.
- Find a way to relax. Activities that help you relax will make managing social isolation easier. Choose activities that are specifically beneficial to you, such as listening to music or praying. Journaling or engaging in other hobbies can be fantastic ways to remain connected.
When to Seek Help for Social Isolation
If you’ve been isolating yourself from others, for any reason, it could be taking a toll on your mental health. Our team is here to support you and guide you through recovery, so you don’t have to face this journey alone.
The following symptoms may indicate that it is time to reach out for help:
- You’re confused and overwhelmed. You feel frustrated over even the simplest of things.
- You cannot cope with a problem that’s occurred just about every day.
- You are hallucinating or delusions, or someone believes you are.
- You are experiencing intense mood and emotional swings that make it hard for you to navigate the day.
- You feel angry or afraid often, and you can recognize that this pain is uncomfortable and often unwarranted.
When you are engaged in isolating behaviors because of mental health limitations and concerns, seek help from a professional who can guide you. It may seem like you are “fine” out there on your own. You may want to deal with other people. Yet, over time, social isolation can be crippling.
How Willow Creek Behavioral Health Can Guide You
If you are facing the desire to be alone, and do not want to be out in the world, it may be time to seek help. If your family member, including your teen, is showing signs of distancing from family and friends, you can reach out to us for the support you need.
You may believe that you are facing depression or you may not understand how your teen could be depressed when they have so much going for them. Some people have no idea why they feel or think like you do.
In all of these situations, contact Willow Creek Behavioral Health for the guidance you need to rebuild a healthy future. We work with people who are facing depression and isolation to provide a better way forward. When you reach out to us, you’ll receive a consultation to discuss what is happening and why you feel so socially isolated.