For years we’ve known of the harmful impact caused by loneliness and being socially isolated. After all, we were created in the image of God, for relationships – with both our Creator and other humans. When those relationships decline, we suffer. It’s just how God hard-wired us.
Recent reports from the U.S. Department of Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), underscore how unhealthy social isolation is: Being alone causes health damage equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day! HRSA reports that prior to this pandemic, 20% of Americans felt socially isolated. This loneliness, with all its weapons, is surely unparalleled now, during these trying times of coping with the Corona Virus. No one could have ever predicted or anticipated these lock downs that can cause feelings of being alone, and losing control.
Therefore, as the months crawl-by, and the days grow longer during this pandemic, both loneliness and social isolation are rampant. Depression, anxiety and suicide are increasing. People feel captive to the pandemic. Holidays only intensify these stresses, as families are fragmented and family traditions and gatherings are impacted; if not totally cancelled…
However, there is hope and encouragement: Just as our careers, families, goals and vacations need planning, so does coping with the Pandemic.
Here are some ways you can “treat yourself” as you navigate through these stormy waters.
1. Exercise:
- It is proven that serotonin, the mood stabilizer, is activated by aerobic exercise. Try running, elliptical exercise, walking in nature and sun exposure. You will note a sense of relaxation when you do.
- Do deep breathing exercises. Breathe in deeply X 10. Note the difference.
2. Playing:
- Listen to music. Play with your pet. Rediscover a hobby.
3. Celebrate little Wins:
- Complete a big task, one step at a time.
- Set self-care goals and revel in their success.
- Be kind to yourself.
4. Spend time with God:
- Read the Psalms aloud.
- Meditate on His Word.
- Take a “prayer walk” where you lift-up friends and loved ones to Jehovah-Rophe, The God Who Heals, during this dark time.
- Join a virtual Bible study or prayer group.
- Remind yourself that He is always with you.
Brother Lawrence was a 17th Century Christian leader who suffered from chronic loneliness and depression. That is, until he found peace with God. Here is what he said:
Form a habit of conversing with God, continually in all you do….His love will inwardly excite us without any difficulty.
Remember how Peter said it:
- Casting all your cares upon Him because He cares for you.
- 1 Peter 5:7