Loneliness and health
As the end of the year approaches, some people crave more alone time. But for those living with loneliness, the holiday season may be particularly challenging.
The silent epidemic
Though primarily considered a social issue, loneliness is known to be both a cause and a consequence of mental and physical ill-health
Loneliness is often dubbed a ’silent epidemic’, not only due to its invisibility, but because it can cause serious health issues. These include cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cognitive decline. It is also linked to depression, anxiety and stress.
There are many other associated factors contributing to loneliness. Sufferers of chronic illness can often experience social disconnection and isolation. Aging, relationship changes and socio-economic disadvantage are also known to play a role.
Notably the pandemic has been a major disruptor that impacted many aspects of daily life. While many people’s lives have reverted to the previous ‘normal’, loneliness has been a lingering consequence for others.
The difference between social isolation and loneliness
Social isolation ‘means having objectively few social relationships or roles and infrequent social contact’. It differs from loneliness, which is a ‘subjective unpleasant or distressing feeling of a lack of connection to other people, along with a desire for more, or more satisfying, social relationships’. The 2 concepts may, but do not necessarily, coexist – a person may be socially isolated but not lonely, or socially connected but feel lonely.
Lifestyle support for loneliness
Preventing disease is central to naturopathy. We also strive to treat the underlying cause of disease when it arises, rather than just the symptoms. Preventing or reducing loneliness could potentially stop other health conditions from developing.
Nature therapy
Being in nature is an experience that involves all our senses. From the mood-lifting impact of sunshine and fresh air, to a sense of calm from being around plants and other natural elements.
Urban parks mightn’t be a wilderness experience but they still offer many health benefits. Being consciously aware of the surrounds will often help reinforce our connection to nature. This might be through noticing the various flora and fauna, actively listening to bird call or registering the smell of cut grass and fragrant plants. But if you’re housebound, consider observing the moon phases, sunsets or sunrises, as well as finding opportunities to bring nature inside your home.
Mindfulness meditation
Beyond a ‘mindful meander’ meditation is known to help cultivate a feeling of calm and connection to both ourselves and others. Practising mindfulness has been proven to reduce stress and strengthen resilience.
There are many free online apps and sites to guide meditation. However attending an in-person course in mindfulness, meditation or mindfulness based stress reduction(MBSR) can be especially useful to embed a new habit while providing an opportunity to connect with others in a calm environment.
Do something for others – however small
An unexpected consequence of starting a laneway garden, was discovering how much pleasure it gives to others in the neighbourhood. Even a flower box, or plants in an apartment window could bring a smile to not only your face but passers-by. Adding books to street libraries, donating unwanted clothes and household items to a charity shop or smiling at a shop worker are small acts of kindness.
©Gill Stannard
Animal therapy
Companion animals are well known to improve our physical and mental health but not everyone wants or is able to keep one. The act of caring for something, even a guinea pig, bird, fish or houseplant increases our connection to life beyond ourselves. If you’re active and have the time, there might be opportunities to connect with animals through dog walking (free or paid), cat sitting or helping out in an animal rescue shelter.
The usual suspects
It might sound trite but volunteering, when you find the right fit, can help reduce loneliness. Though I’ve volunteered throughout my life, I was surprised by how much it created meaningful connections and friendships when I moved interstate.
Joining groups, on and off line, provide environments for connection. While social media has its pitfalls, finding beneficial communities can be a lifesaver. A shout out to Leigh Sales and Annabel Crabb’s ‘Chatter’ community with an ethos of kindness, that was spawned from their podcast. Likewise there are online niches for all sorts of interests, such as travel groups catering for particular demographics and interests.
When you need professional help
To access in-person and online counselling, Medicare rebates are available for psychology and other allied health in Australia through a GP care plan. There is also support available through many organisations advocating for specific health conditions.
Although naturopathy is not a ‘cure’ for loneliness, working with a naturopath or herbalist may help alleviate existing underlying conditions and improve wellbeing.
If you need immediate mental health support, the following links to connect with 24/7 services.
Australia
New Zealand
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