Surviving Isolation
As humans we crave interaction, we are social beings and thrive when we feel a part of a community. We can feel lost and detached when faced with these global pandemic isolation measures. For those who are tech savvy perhaps it is not too bad. The older generation certainly would feel the effect of not having their family and friends visiting. Our brains are conditioned to survive, part of this survival is linked with human connection. In prehistoric times we would seek company to support and protect ourselves and our offspring. We are hard-wired and conditioned to believe that we need to be surrounded by others to survive (yes, even the introverts out there).
Research shows us that social isolation can trigger depression, anxiety and in some cases post-traumatic stress disorder – due to the effect on our emotional well-being. Social isolation can reduce dopamine and serotonin in our brain (the chemicals that make us feel good). The next time you are feeling a little lost and lonely, do your brain a favour and seek out some social interaction (at this stage with our governments advice, from the safety of your own home). Here are some ideas to help reactivate those feel good chemicals and get those neurons firing:
Old school phone call – reach out, especially to the older generation who may not have access to technology (although these days there are no excuses, my Pop who was 100 years young when he passed, still made birthday cards on his computer, emailed us inappropriate jokes and links to the local newspaper articles that he featured in).
Video conferencing – there are so many awesome tools in the market that have plenty of features including video call functions. Our go-to favourites are Zoom, Messenger, Snapchat and Houseparty.
Kindness – be kind, go the extra step to share some lovely feedback and acknowledge people for their hard work. Instead of mindlessly scrolling social media, stop to like a post and share something kind in the comments. Whilst visiting the supermarket for food supplies, make an extra effort to talk to and thank the cashier.
‘Pay-it-forward’ – find something you can do for someone else. Last week I opened my schedule and offered free 45-min coaching sessions for those facing change and feeling uncomfortable. It felt so good helping others, it gave me purpose and connection - it gave them clarity, confidence, hope and a path forward.
Digitally join a group – hang out with like-minded people, who can lift you up when you feel you need a little extra. I recently joined a Facebook group called #attacktheday it
covers all things exercise and motivation. I really look forward to posting my daily update and cheering others on (I can’t help it, it’s the coach in me!).
What do you need to survive isolation?
This process of isolation has certainly reminded me to slow down, pause and take a breath. I am practicing daily mindfulness and gratitude for the smaller, simpler things in life. Human connection is important for us to survive and thrive – make sure you are getting the right dose from a safe physical distance.