More Studies Highlight the Impacts of Social Isolation in the Pandemic

(Newswire.net — July 12, 2022) Orlando, FL — The pandemic has produced a number of changes in the life and health of millions of people worldwide. One of these changes is social isolation, which has been found to increase the rates of mental health issues. 

Health authorities have long been warning that there are an increasing number of people who are feeling lonely, and this is considered by health care authorities to be alarming. 

A meta-analysis was carried out and co-authored by Julianne Holt-Lunstad, Ph.D., a professor of psychology and neuroscience at Brigham Young University.

It’s been found that a lack of social connection increases health risks, such as smoking 15 cigarettes a day or having alcohol use disorder. It’s further been found that social isolation and loneliness are twice as harmful to physical and mental health as obesity.

“There is robust evidence that social isolation and loneliness significantly increase the risk for premature mortality, and the magnitude of the risk exceeds that of many leading health indicators,” Holt Lunstad says.

More and more health experts are focusing on campaigns to lessen social isolation and loneliness.  

The most recent U.S. census data have shown that over a quarter of the population lives alone, and it is the highest rate ever recorded. Further, it’s been found more than half of the population is unmarried and there was a decline in the marriage rates and the number of children. 

“Regardless of whether loneliness is increasing or remaining stable, we have lots of evidence that a significant portion of the population is affected by it,” says Holt Lunstad.  

“Being connected to others socially is widely considered a fundamental human need—crucial to both well-being and survival.”

Health experts have time and again warned that loneliness wreaks havoc on one’s physical, mental, and cognitive health. It is important to realize that in these times of global health crisis, it is vital to take measures helpful not just in maintaining immunity but also in mental health.

There are many ways to keep mental help in shape and reduce the severity of issues like anxiety and depression. It is strongly recommended to maintain connections with friends and family and take care of one’s self. 

One of the recommended self-care techniques is to exercise regularly and have a healthy diet. It is important to keep in mind that these are steps also found particularly protect brain health. There are also certain remedies like the medicinal mushroom called lion’s mane found to have mental health benefits. 

It may be obtained through the use of formulas like Divine Bounty Lion’s Mane (https://amazon.com/Organic-Lions-Mane-Mushroom-Capsules/dp/B07LGR1KN7).