The Causes of Isolation
Of course, because being isolated isn’t always a negative sign, and due to the fact it can be measured and more easily dealt with, doesn’t mean that it’s free of issues and problems. As mentioned earlier, isolation and loneliness differ as isolation can be a choice made by the individual, however, this isolation can also occur because of circumstances like location and transportation, disabilities or long-term illnesses.
When isolation isn’t a choice and an individual is isolated because of their situation, or the environment surrounding them, this can lead to a variety of issues such as:
POOR HEALTH – Social isolation can lead to poor physical, mental and emotional health. If you crave the need to speak and connect with people, yet are unable to do so for whatever reason, health can rapidly decline. Mental health issues such as depression and anxiety can become more noticeable and harder to deal with. A lack of physical activity with others can lead to bad habits such as a poor diet, bad sleeping habits and excessive drinking or smoking.
IMPAIRED EXECUTIVE FUNCTION – Executive function covers a broad range of human traits and abilities such as problem solving, communication and management of various parts of life. A lack of connection can lead to a decrease in these abilities which can affect your life, both personal and professional.
COGNITIVE DECLINE – Cognitive abilities include things like memory, concentration, and other conscious mental decisions. A decline in this can lead to memory loss, a decrease in motivation and other serious mental declines and losses.
DECREASED MORTALITY – Research evidence has pointed towards people who suffer from social isolation can actually die earlier. This is because of issues mentioned such as increased stress, the inability to solve problems as effectively and efficiently and mental decline.