As discussed previously, a little time alone is good for us to think, regroup, and enjoy solitude. Too much time alone, however, can cause mental and physical damage. Now the mental part is easy to get. When you are alone all of the time, you do not share conversation, bounce ideas around with others, play in a group, laugh uproariously with friends, or divulge secrets, concerns, and deep thoughts. All of these are snuffed out because of a lack of interconnectedness with others. Research has shown that mental health deteriorates through lack of associations and may even lead to early onset dementia.
You can probably pull up an image of a cranky old woman who lived in an apparently haunted house, who growled and snarled and rarely muttered a peep. She lived across the street from me when I was little and while my image may be completely false in reality, it is the first that comes to mind when I think of dementia, forgetfulness, and treacherous behavior. I realize now that maybe had I said hello, provided her with a bouquet of flowers, or just smiled and waved I might have brought her some happiness and peace of mind. Loneliness is an awesome pain.
According to Connect2Affect of AARP isolation has additional negative side effects including increased susceptibility to the flu (poor eating and hygiene may play into this), high blood pressure (poor eating and lack of exercise may factor in here), and the risk of heart disease (poor eating, lack of exercise, inability or desire to access health care all lead to increased illness).
Having friends and socializing make a positive difference in outlook as well as health. This does not mean all-out, full-time, every-second-of-the-day togetherness, but it does mean daily - hopefully several times per day - moments of connectivity with vital family members and friends.
No comments:
Post a Comment