How Social Isolation Can Affect Your Mental Health
Social isolation is something that is common in today’s global climate. The pandemic that’s making its rounds across the globe has kept many people indoors and many of them are having problems with their mental health. But how exactly does it affect your mental health and what can you do about it?
The Effect Of Social Isolation On Mental Health
Being isolated during quarantine is a common occurrence and it has a profound effect on the mental well being of a large number of people. This is especially true for extroverts who enjoy being outdoors. With mental health being as important as physical health, it only makes sense to maintain it. However, you won’t be able to do so if you don’t recognize the signs that you or your family members are becoming mentally unstable. This is why we’ve put together a list of signs that you or your loved ones’ mental health is being affected by social isolation.
Developing Mental Disorders
A common occurrence in people who are isolated from society for long periods of time is the development of mental health concerns and problems. This commonly comes in the form of long lasting trauma and depression.
Increased Risk for Anxiety Attacks
Anxiety is generally experienced when a person has to go through a stressful situation. However, it can also occur if a person is isolated for prolonged periods of time. People experiencing this type of anxiety attack can expect higher heart rates, labored breathing and other problems. Anxiety is a way for a person’s body to tell them that something isn’t right. In this case it’s the isolation.
Difficulty Sleeping or Excessive Sleeping
Sleep problems are also common in people who experience social isolation. This is generally caused by anxiety that can keep them unnecessarily awake. If you are aware of the anxiety and can work around it, you can use sleep to your advantage and use it to improve your mental well being. However, too much sleep can also be a problem.Excessive sleep can cause a number of health problems that can affect both body and mind. This includes a higher risk of heart attacks, strokes and diabetes just to name a few.
Increased Irritability
Once again this symptom stems from the anxiety and uneasiness a person experiences when they are isolated. Lack of sleep can also be a culprit and cause a person to be more irritable and angrier than normal.
Addiction In Many Shapes and Forms
Another common problem that can occur after a person is isolated is that they tend to indulge in various vices. These vices can come in many shapes and forms. They can be very damaging for not only their mental health, but also their physical health. Drinking, drugs, and excessive sleeping
Final Thoughts
With no end in sight with this pandemic, declining mental health in society is a major problem that needs to be tackled. However, it cannot be beat without the right awareness of the signs and symptoms.
