Minds Matter – Behavioral Health in Pandemics and Beyond

January, 2021
by Dr. Dale Atkins

Isolation and loneliness are key issues in our post-pandemic world. The COVID-19 crisis has actually distracted us from this issue. We may believe loneliness will go away when the pandemic ends. Wrong! Loneliness will continue after the pandemic is in the rearview mirror.

Isolation and loneliness weaken our immune systems and make us more susceptible to all kinds of illnesses and diseases. Loneliness can be deadly. Multiple studies estimate the incidence of premature deaths from loneliness or isolation at ~14-28%.

Socially isolated individuals can suffer from loneliness even when not alone. Physical distancing isn’t the same as social distancing. Let’s increase social connectedness while we remain physically distant.

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