Isolation is one of the most difficult experiences to navigate as an individual. Whether due to personal circumstances or broader societal challenges, being separated from your community, friends, and family can leave a profound impact. Humans are inherently social beings, and a lack of meaningful interaction can take a toll not only on mental well-being but also on physical health. The effects of prolonged isolation reveal just how deeply our ability to thrive depends on connection and engagement with others. Here are 10 Mental and Physical Health Risks Linked to Isolation:
Higher Blood Pressure
Prolonged isolation can affect a lot in your body and one of the big things that it can do is it can lead to higher blood pressure levels. Lots of factors play a hand, including staying inside, not being active, eating, poorly and more. Due to the circumstances of being confined within the walls of your own home, blood pressure levels can be negatively affected. Isolation makes it incredibly easy for everyone to fall off of their routines and normalcies.
The stress and anxiety that can arise due to being alone can cause our cortisol levels to skyrocket. When cortisol levels start to rise it essentially means that those fight or flight hormones such as adrenaline are on overtime. This can cause a domino effect of health problems, leading to obesity, excessive production of glucose and more.
Sleep Disturbances
Extended periods of isolation can disrupt daily routines, leading to decreased physical activity and an inability to recognize exhaustion. This can negatively impact sleep schedules and habits.
Sleep is crucial for regulatory functions in the human body. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), sleep disturbances can lead to impaired cognitive function, increased susceptibility to illness, irritability, and more. A study published in Sleep and Biological Rhythms found that loneliness and social isolation are linked to worse sleep quality, specifically lower sleep efficiency. Additionally, the National Sleep Foundation highlights that chronic sleep deprivation increases the risk of health problems like high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, depression, and obesity.
Ensuring proper bodily function starts with good sleep. Trust and listen to your body’s circadian rhythm.
Weight Gain
Weight gain is a common response to prolonged isolation, often accompanied by emotional battles. The lack of physical activity and motivation to maintain healthy habits can lead to significant weight gain. Studies have shown that social isolation and loneliness can lead to unhealthy eating patterns and reduced physical activity, contributing to obesity. The American Psychological Association (APA) reported that 42% of U.S. adults experienced undesired weight gain during the COVID-19 pandemic, with an average gain of 29 pounds. This weight gain is associated with increased risks of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.
Weakened Immune Function
When an individual experiences prolonged isolation, their immune system can weaken almost immediately due to lack of exposure to external stimuli. Normally, going out in public exposes us to various germs, helping our bodies build defenses against them. Without this exposure, the immune system doesn’t get the practice it needs to fight off bacteria and viruses. As a result, when isolated individuals eventually come into contact with illnesses, they may experience more severe symptoms and a greater threat to their health.
Studies have shown that social isolation can alter immune system cells, making individuals more susceptible to illness. Research published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that loneliness can lead to increased inflammation and a weaker immune response.
Heightened Anxiety and Stress
Stress can be triggered by various factors, but isolation plays a significant role in exacerbating anxiety responses. The lack of social support, negative thought patterns, fear of judgment, disruption of routine, and cognitive decline all contribute to heightened stress levels1. According to a study by Julianne Holt-Lunstad, PhD, social isolation and loneliness can increase health risks as much as smoking 15 cigarettes a day or having an alcohol use disorder. Additionally, social isolation has been linked to cognitive decline, which further impacts mental health. When mental health deteriorates, physical health often follows suit. The interconnectedness of mental and physical health means that deficits in one area can lead to declines in the other.
Increased Loneliness
Isolation and loneliness are closely linked, both representing a disconnection from the outside world. These feelings can diminish many positive aspects of daily life, leading to a sense of loneliness and a lack of meaningful relationships. According to the National Institute on Aging, social isolation and loneliness are associated with higher risks of various health problems, including heart disease, cognitive decline, and premature death. Addressing feelings of loneliness is crucial for maintaining both mental and physical well-being.
Difficulty Maintaining Social Skills
Human interactions are crucial, and social skills become more natural and manageable with regular practice. For instance, giving a presentation at work or school is less daunting if it’s a frequent task. However, prolonged isolation can disrupt this practice, making such tasks more challenging due to increased nerves and unfamiliarity.
Diminished social skills can significantly impact various aspects of life, including increased rates of depression and feelings of isolation. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), social connections are essential for mental well-being, and a lack of these connections can lead to mental health issues. A study published in Psychiatry Research found that social support was associated with a reduced risk of depression and better sleep quality during periods of isolation. Maintaining social skills is vital for overall mental and physical health.
Negative Self Perception
When human interaction is removed, social validation in daily life diminishes, leading to a lack of feedback and affirmation that humans need to feel worthy of their decisions and choices. This can result in negative self-perception, characterized by increased rumination—overthinking and dwelling on negative thoughts or past failures. Isolation reduces opportunities for success and accomplishment, causing individuals to feel stagnated and inferior.
Studies have shown that social isolation can lead to heightened rumination and negative self-perception. According to research published in Behavior Research and Therapy, rumination can heighten vulnerability to anxiety, depression, insomnia, and impulsive behaviors. Additionally, a study by the American Psychological Association (APA) found that social connections are essential for mental well-being, and a lack of these connections can lead to mental health issues1.
Hormonal Imbalances
Prolonged isolation can lead to significant stress, struggles, and loneliness, resulting in hormonal imbalances. These imbalances can disrupt the body’s normal functioning, leading to various health issues. Maintaining social connections with peers and family members is crucial for keeping the body healthy and functioning optimally. Research has shown that social isolation can affect the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, leading to increased levels of stress hormones like cortisol. Additionally, a study published in Psychoneuroendocrinology found that social isolation is associated with elevated inflammatory markers and altered immune responses, which can further impact overall health.
Decreased Academic Performance
Prolonged isolation poses significant challenges to academic performance. Classroom management and instructional tactics have been forever changed, leading to students becoming disconnected from the learning environment. Effective learning should involve interaction with peers and in-person lessons, rather than computer screens and segregation. According to a study published in Educational Researcher, in-person learning facilitates better engagement, understanding, and retention of material. Additionally, research by the American Psychological Association (APA) indicates that peer interaction is crucial for cognitive and social development, which are essential for academic success.
Whatever factor someone experiences related to isolation, is almost destined to decrease academic performance and lesson knowledge intake.
