Many studies have found strong correlations between social isolation and other conditions such as loneliness, depression, and anxiety just to name a few. Each of these conditions on their own have many negative effects on a person’s physical and mental health. Together they form a perfect storm. Not everyone will experience each of these conditions, but many will experience a combination of them, and this page is dedicated to naming a few signs and symptoms of these conditions.
01.
There have been many studies that show a correlation between people who experience social isolation and mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety. Anxiety disorders and chronic stress can cause rapid heart rate, palpitations, and chest pain. A person can also be at an increased risk of high blood pressure and heart disease (Pietrangelo,A. Cherney, K 2017a).
In a 2015 study led by Steven Cole, MD, a professor of medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles, found that the leukocytes of lonely participants showed an increased expression of genes involved in inflammation and a decreased expression of genes involved in antiviral responses. Simply put participants had more inflammation and their overall immunity defenses were decreased.
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A 2016 study led by Newcastle University epidemiologist Nicole Valtorta, PhD, linked loneliness to a 30 percent increase in risk of stroke or the development of coronary heart disease.
03.
When a body is suffering from stress the muscles tend to tense up to help protect from injury and when under chronic stress those muscles might not get a chance to relax, causing headaches, back and shoulder pain, and other body aches. Over time tense muscles become fatigued and make your body sluggish and less willing to exercise.
04.
Stress causes the liver to produce extra glucose in the body and when under chronic stress, the body will stop producing insulin, which may increase the risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes.
Stress and anxiety have been linked to IBS (Irritable bowel syndrome). The symptoms with IBS include but not limited to cramps, abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and acid reflux or heartburn.
05.
There are many other things that can happen to the body and mind when a person experiences social isolation. As the muscular system weakens, a person is more likely to become fatigued. The food that is consumed also greatly changes. A person who experiences social isolation can either eat too much or too little. On top of being depressed, a person can develop suicidal thoughts (for suicidal thoughts, visit the Suicide Prevention Lifeline website).