We read a recent article from Dr. Joseph Mercola’s website www.mercola.com on the rising incidence of loneliness all over the world. He discussed the fact that none of us can know for certain what tomorrow may bring. “The hard truth is that we do not know who will be around for Thanksgiving next November. What we do have is right now – this moment – today. We are not promised one second more…” The article was encouraging people not to live in a vortex due to what is going on in the world. We can still interact with people, including family for the holidays. Do we want to be “grappling with regret” if, God forbid, one of your family/friends is not at the Thanksgiving table next year?
The article goes on to quote an AARP report stating that isolation could be a fate worse than death. Since October 2019, increasing numbers of seniors report that they struggle with loneliness and depression. Many are frustrated trying to navigate unchartered territories, making previously simple things like going to the store or to a medical provider increasingly challenging. Not everyone is cut out to handle “virtual” doctor visits and online grocery shopping!
We must remember those who are alone may be feeling even more isolated now, lacking motivation to do just about anything, including trying to connect with friends or family. Many are saying, “it’s just not worth it.” These are signs of depression. Social distancing and other regulations have led to an epidemic of loneliness, depression, and anxiety which has significant emotional and health risks in and of themselves. Do you realize that many people are going months without interacting with any others outside of their homes or work? Women over 50 are especially vulnerable to feelings of being overwhelmed, anxious, and stressed.
A study in 2019 by the American Cancer Society, stated that social isolation increases mortality from every cause. Kassandra Alcaraz reported, “Our research really shows that the magnitude of risk presented by social isolation is very similar in magnitude to that of obesity, smoking, lack of access to care and physical inactivity.” The article goes on to say that “the reason this happens is because prolonged social isolation physically changes the shape and function of your brain. The hippocampus, the region responsible for learning and memory not only shrinks in size in response to long-term isolation, it loses its plasticity and may eventually shut down altogether. At the same time, the amygdala, which regulates your fear and anxiety response, goes into overdrive.”
What can we do? Before cancelling your holiday plans with loved ones, consider figuring out a way to be together, make new memories, and enjoy time spent together. None of us knows what tomorrow may bring. Let’s consider the mental (and physical) health of those who may be more isolated than others. Invite someone over to your home or to take a walk on the beach. Let’s choose the way of love, caring, and kindness this holiday season.