As the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe, governments implemented strict measures like nationwide lockdowns and social distancing to contain the virus. Amidst the chaos and uncertainty, medical professionals and researchers observed a concerning trend: the exacerbation of an existing epidemic – loneliness.
Even in a post-coronavirus world, the issue of loneliness remains prevalent, with potentially greater health implications than obesity or smoking. Loneliness is more than just being physically alone; it is a state of feeling isolated and disconnected, yearning for meaningful connections.
Neha Qazi, a Family Psychoeducator and School Liaison at the Thrive Wellbeing Centre in Dubai, explains that loneliness is a subjective experience, unique to each individual. Its impact may vary, influenced by personal experiences, social worth, and the connection between mind and body.
Many individuals experiencing loneliness may not even realize it, as they lack emotional awareness and the vocabulary to identify and articulate their feelings. Instead, they may express its impact on their lives through symptoms like depression, anxiety in social situations, or dissatisfaction with relationships.
Loneliness poses significant risks to human health, as highlighted in an 82-page advisory issued by US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy. The report emphasizes the strong correlation between a lack of social connection and increased health risks. Loneliness is associated with a higher likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease, dementia, stroke, and premature death, as stated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The US National Institute of Aging reveals that feeling lonely can be as detrimental to health as smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day, surpassing the risks associated with obesity and physical inactivity.
Qazi elaborates on the mental and physical consequences of loneliness. It can lead to stress, depression, social anxiety, impaired cognitive ability, risk-taking behavior, anti-social tendencies, substance abuse, and even alterations in brain function. Loneliness-induced stress can have unpredictable and exponential effects on both physical and mental health.
While the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is known as the happiest Arab nation according to the World Happiness Report, loneliness may still be underestimated among its residents. Fast-paced environments, like those found in bustling cities such as Dubai, often foster unrealistic expectations and unhealthy behaviors. Qazi explains that while some individuals thrive in such environments, others may feel pressured to achieve without experiencing the desired outcomes. This pressure can manifest in work, social, and domestic settings, as individuals neglect to pause, reflect on their desires, and prioritize their well-being.
Additionally, when relocating to a new country, individuals may prioritize logistical details like securing employment, finding a place to live, and managing finances. However, crucial factors such as the healthiness of the work environment, diversity among colleagues, cultural assimilation opportunities, and social networking opportunities may be overlooked.
Qazi suggests that individuals should actively seek out communities and activities that provide a sense of familiarity and belonging, such as interest-based groups or communities of the same nationality. Online platforms like the “Dubai Expat Community” Facebook group offer a safe space for expatriates to seek advice, ask questions, and socialize without judgment. To further foster connections, the group is planning physical events for its members.
In addressing loneliness, Qazi emphasizes the importance of actively working on forming or reforming connections. Normalizing loneliness and cultivating self-compassion are crucial steps in this process. Individuals should also make time for self-connection through activities like self-care or solitary walks to reinforce positive feelings about oneself.
As we navigate the post-COVID era, combating loneliness requires collective efforts to prioritize human connections, both within ourselves and with others.