As human beings, we are wired to be socially connected with others. In fact, there are many positive physical and mental health benefits from being connected to others. Conversely, social isolation can carry concerns for emotional impact. However, there are many strategies to lesson negative emotional impact and even positive opportunities which may not otherwise have occurred. Sources of stress for people who are isolated or distanced socially include decreased sensory stimulation, limited social support, and lack of access to standard coping strategies, such as spiritual or religious practices or exercising outdoors. These things, along with missing work and other obligations, can trigger a powerful sense of losing control. People who quarantined may experience feelings of stigmatization in addition to feelings people who are socially isolated as a prevention strategy have. People who are socially isolated can experience:
- Increased symptoms of anxiety and depression
- Fear