The Global Initiative on Loneliness and Connection defines social connection as having a variety of relationships (from strong to weak ties), relationships that can be relied upon for support, and importantly where you feel trust, and where high quality and satisfying exchange occurs. However, when social connection is lacking, people may experience either subjective social isolation (i.e., loneliness), objective social isolation (i.e. limited social support and connections), or both.
According to HILDA survey, men are more likely to be socially isolated whilst women are more likely to feel lonely. The same survey identified Australian’s aged 35–44 exhibited the highest rate of loneliness (17%). A separate study identified those experiencing loneliness were 5.2 times more likely to have poorer wellbeing, 4.6 times more likely to experience depression, and 4.1 times more likely to experience social anxiety. Given these statistics, the question you may be asking is why is it that we struggle to connect and if we do connect, why do we struggle to feel fulfilled in our relationships? One key root cause for people suffering in silence in Australia has been linked to the stigma associated with loneliness that prevents us from talking about it and seeking out the connections we so desire and need.
So, knowing the problem, and knowing you are not alone in feeling this way, what steps should you take to bridge the gap from isolation to connection? One answer is to acknowledge your state of wellbeing and to then take the necessary steps to engage therapists, friends, family or community groups. For those experiencing the effects of loneliness and social isolation, counselling for depression in Geelong offered by Helen Handsjuk Psychology is one such simple avenue where you can learn how to find and sustain meaningful, quality relationships.
What can trigger loneliness and isolation?
According to meta-analysis, loneliness and isolation can be triggered by a variety of factors including:
- Increase use in technology and in particular social media. Although technology can be instrumental in connecting us, it can also place an illusion of quality connection.
- Life transitions and loss
- Physical and health barriers
- Environmental factors, such as living in a remote or rural area
- Social factors, such as discrimination, and financial hardship
- Other life responsibilities that cause stress, worry and overwhelm, such as parenting demands, or caring for an ageing relative
At one point in our life, we may be confronted with one or many of the above challenges. As adults, we manage these differently and consequently are impacted to varying extents. What is important to remember is that there is always a solution and help available.
The link between depression, loneliness, and social isolation
Depression, loneliness, and social isolation are closely interconnected. While social isolation and loneliness can increase the likelihood of developing depression, depression itself can also cause people to withdraw from social interactions, creating a cycle that can be difficult to break.
Both social isolation and loneliness can negatively affect emotional wellbeing and contribute to the development or worsening of depression. When you feel lonely or isolated for extended periods, you may experience increased stress, anxiety, reduced self-esteem, and a diminished sense of belonging. As humans we are inherently social, and meaningful social connections play an important role in supporting our mental health. Without these connections, we may become more vulnerable to feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and depression.
Similarly, depression often affects our thoughts, emotions, and behaviours in ways that make maintaining relationships more challenging. Common symptoms such as low motivation, fatigue, reduced confidence, and self-critical thinking can make social interaction feel exhausting or overwhelming.
Depressive symptoms can present as:
- Declining invitations to social events.
- Reduced communication with family and friends.
- Withdrawing from workplace or community activities.
- Feeling you are a burden to others.
- Avoiding situations where you fear judgement or rejection.
Over time, this repetitive pattern of withdrawal can lead to increased loneliness and fewer opportunities to receive emotional support, which may further intensify depressive symptoms.
Depression and loneliness can create a self-perpetuating cycle. It is therefore critical to reach out for support to break this cycle.
How can a psychologist be the bridge to connection?
Seeking support from Helen Handsjuk Psychology Geelong is one proactive step you can take to reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Helen can help you with:
- Identifying the root cause and barriers of your loneliness and isolation.
- Learning to identify, articulate, and manage your perceived versus actual barriers and limiting beliefs.
- Establishing practical ways to explore and instigate meaningful connections. It is easy to sacrifice quality for quantity.
- Providing practical solutions that allow you sustain new and existing connections overtime. Helen will consider structural constraints and other variables that may be presented as hurdles.
Remember, connection is an intentional act that requires our conscious attention.
Are you ready to connect?
Everyone deserves and needs quality social connections throughout their life. Although the path to these connections isn’t always straightforward, it is nevertheless possible to achieve. Contact Helen Handsjuk today if you want to start the journey of improving your connections and overall wellbeing.
