The COVID-19 pandemic affected not only the economy and society but also the mental states of people. One of the most notable consequences of self-isolation became the growing sense of loneliness that might lead to severe emotional problems. Although the pandemic made people experience loneliness, it is important to recognize the ways how to deal with this problem and help others establish connections with people.
The occurrence of the pandemic forced people to stay at home in order to protect themselves and others from the spread of the virus. Working from home and having to stay at home at all times reduced the amount of time people spend with one another. The lack of small tasks in the workplaces or meetings with friends contributed to the growing feeling of loneliness. Considering that loneliness is an unpleasant feeling that makes a person experience mood downturns, the uncertainty of the situation with the pandemic and the already affected social life might enhance the negative emotional state. Moreover, the studies demonstrated that the pandemic triggered loneliness in society with approximately 36% of the respondents admitted that they experience loneliness. As a result, the following studies identified that 63% of young people reported the symptoms of anxiety and depression (Walsh). Loneliness affects the mental state of a person and leads to negative thoughts and the feeling of despair. However, there are effective and meaningful methods on how to deal with the feeling of loneliness and improve the mental state while helping other people.
In the majority of cases, the feeling of loneliness is the result of the disconnection from regular life and lack of daily real-life communication. Nevertheless, the initial step in coping with loneliness is the decision to reach out to the friends and people that one cares about. One needs to find opportunities to connect with people on the Internet or in person. The quality of the connections is more significant than the quantity of the social contacts. Thus, it is important to approach social networks with caution to not get a false perception about the happiness of others. However, one of the most crucial aspects of dealing with loneliness is the ability to understand whether a person needs help and support. Reaching out to a person and asking about the feelings could make a positive change for somebody and relieve the loneliness (McCrimmon). Helping others cope with loneliness could be an important solution to achieve a sense of fulfillment and would relieve the loneliness for the ones who do it.
Consequently, the fight against loneliness is one of the most crucial goals of society during the pandemic. People need to recognize that maintaining meaningful connections and trying to stay in touch with each other demonstrate the efforts against loneliness. Meanwhile, it is essential to reach out to other people and ask whether they need something or ask them how they feel. Showing someone the willingness to help could make a positive difference and relieve the feeling of loneliness.
Works Cited
McCrimmon, Katie Kerwin. “Loneliness during the Covid-19 PANDEMIC: Fight It with Kindness.” UCHealth Today, 10 Dec. 2020, www.uchealth.org/today/loneliness-during-the-covid-19-pandemic-fight-it-with-kindness
Walsh, Colleen. “Young Adults Hardest Hit by Loneliness during Pandemic, Study Finds.” Harvard Gazette, 17 Feb. 2021, news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2021/02/young-adults-teens-loneliness-mental-health-coronavirus-covid-pandemic/. /.
