6) Ensuring Best Writing Practices (OUTDATED)

@SoulfullyAButterfly

 Social isolation doesn't mean humans would feel lonely, research say

According to APA, loneliness is having poorer communication and relationship quality than one needs, while isolation means one has few connections. (APA,2020) has found a 5% increase in loneliness, but it depends on each individual; some feel less, and some feel more lonely. Online communication seems to be a helpful coping strategy, as it maintains a helpful and supportive network of relationships. In some cases where family stay home together, this is a healthy coping when they strengthen their prenatal and/or wife-husband bond.Some non-communication methods such as self-help books or self-care had found a positive impact on one's mental health. However, more research has to be conducted to understand the underlying issues, and seem like social isolation is just merely one of many factors that contribute to loneliness

@SoulfullyAButterfly

Loneliness and COVID-19 Pandemic 

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly altered the course of the world. Beyond its impact on the global  economy and politics, it has had a profound effect on public health, both mental and physical.

One of the psychological consequences of the global COVID-19 pandemic is loneliness and social isolation. Physical distancing and lockdowns have led to social isolation, loss of 

income, feelings of loneliness, lethargy, and decreased social support. 

Social media and engaging in hobbies have played a crucial role in helping people cope with feelings of loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many individuals discovered or rediscovered their talents and hobbies which helped distract them and provided an outlet for their emotions, thoughts, and a sense of accomplishment. Professional help has also been an effective tool in overcoming loneliness, while exercise and meditation have been shown to reduce anxiety.

References :

Lancet Psychiatry 2020;7:8_24. How mental health care should change as a consequence of the COVI_19 pandemic.

One Idea for Coping with Loneliness 

Even though the pandemic forces us to be physically away from our loved ones or community members, there are still ways to connect with each other. For instance, you can start a virtual hobby with your friends, such as playing a multiplayer video game or hosting watch parties. You can also engage in physical hobbies while sending virtual updates to your community. If you do not know you to share such updates with, you can start with one of the forums on 7Cups!

If you cannot think of a suitable hobby, even getting on a call with a friend can be helpful.

Coping with Loneliness During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified feelings of loneliness, affecting mental health significantly. According to the Office for National Statistics, 7.2% of adults in Great Britain reported feeling lonely “often” or “always” between October 2020 and February 2021, up from 5.0% in the early months of the pandemic. Social distancing, while necessary, has led to increased isolation, contributing to depressive symptoms and anxiety. To cope, it’s crucial to recognize that loneliness is not just about being alone but also about how we perceive our isolation. Engaging in activities like journaling can help manage negative thoughts. Building virtual connections and practicing self-compassion are also vital. Addressing the critical inner voice that exacerbates loneliness can alleviate some of the emotional burden.

Speaking of connecting with others virtually, 7 Cups is a website where you can speak with compassionate listeners who are trained in active listening skills. Whether you're lonely and in need of someone to talk or going through a rough patch emotionally, our listeners are ready to offer you a shoulder to lean on.

Source 1 | Source 2 | Source 3 | Source 4

@SoulfullyAButterfly

Coping with Loneliness During the COVID-19 Pandemic:

The impact on introverts:

It would be assumed that lockdowns would be paradise for introverts, allowing them to work from home, no social interactions expected, less anxiety, I could go on.

The fact of the matter is that this cohort have been found to be more affected by Covid 19 lockdowns that their extrovert counterparts.

“Extroverts find a way to connect,” even when conditions make it difficult to do so, she said, whereas introverts are less adept at maintaining their fewer social connections. ( Quote by Anahita Shokrkon, a PhD student in the Department of Psychology at the University of Alberta, https://www.ualberta.ca/en/folio/2021/08/pandemic-isolation-harder-on-introverts-than-extroverts-study-suggests.html )

If you find yourself in this situation and confused by the impact of lockdowns, know that

1.     It is normal

2.    It is ok

3.    You are not alone

4.    There is always a listener who will understand you at www.7cups.com  

There is always a group in the community of www.7cups.com who will welcome you, you can find them here 😊 https://www.7cups.com/community/

@SoulfullyAButterfly

Coping with Loneliness During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Managing emotions and the experience of loneliness

Living during a pandemic has proven to be difficult for the majority of us, and it’s even more difficult when loneliness and isolation wreak havoc on our emotional and physical well-being. Most feel incredibly alone and lonely during this time, but it may be of some relief to know there are ways - besides socializing - to directly manage these feelings.

Loneliness can cause adverse health consequences, not only emotionally, but physiologically as well. With this in mind, how can we process and manage the feelings and emotions that arrive with loneliness? There are many methods, techniques, and so on, to cope with, or process what we’re experiencing.

Keywords: loneliness, pandemic, feelings, living, health, managing emotions

(Word count: 108)

Small Steps to Hatch Out of Loneliness During COVID-19

We all know the cost of staying at home, away from social interactions, during these times of COVID-19, which has now become a loneliness pandemic. Thankfully, there are small steps to help us break free from this loneliness cocoon. Whether it’s creating a routine that mirrors offline habits in an online setting, forming virtual connections, or adding joy by engaging in activities that spark happiness, every bit helps. Practicing mindfulness, self-compassion, and resilience is essential. Taking care of ourselves is crucial during these tough times. If you’re experiencing emotional unease or distress, remember, mental health support is available online. And if you’re in a position to give, consider volunteering or reaching out to others in need, it’s a meaningful way to help others and yourself too.

@SoulfullyAButterfly

Navigating Loneliness in the Shadow of a Pandemic

A story of resilience, connection, and hope during challenging times

Coping with loneliness during COVID-19 was challenging for many. The social distancing rules made us feel more isolated than ever. But technology became our unexpected hero. According to the Journal of Medical Internet Research, it helped us stay connected and eased our lockdown loneliness. It was tough on young adults. Studies by the Journal of Adolescent Health showed a rise in loneliness linked to mental health struggles. They need support to build resilience and foster connections. And let's not forget our older friends and those with health issues. They showed us that resilience can vary. Everyone's journey is unique. Emotional distress greatly influenced how loneliness harmed our mental health. Research at the Nursing Open shows the need for coping strategies to address our feelings and social needs. In the end, we found purpose and used digital tools. They helped us manage and lift our spirits in challenging times.