Remaining in a prolonged state of isolation can be mentally and emotionally harmful, depriving people of everyday interaction that is necessary to maintain normal dopamine and endorphin levels.
Isolation has become mandatory for those in Los Angeles County, as well as others throughout California due to COVID-19 and the probability of developing depressive tendencies are consistently increasing.
According to the “Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders” (DSM-IV) depressive tendencies may include sleep disturbance, lack of concentration and suicidal thoughts.
Isolation develops feelings of loneliness, as it is also seen to be a state in which people with major depressive disorder seek comfort in, ultimately contributing to the disease.
According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, social isolation is a public health risk in itself as it is associated with a reduced lifespan and detrimental to one’s mental and physical health.
The public has undergone immense amounts of stress in relation to financial, emotional and physical health issues, to name a few.
In addition, students have been severely impacted, now facing academic struggles as well as their wellness and financial stability.
Some LBCC students have spoken about experiences with isolation, like Nayelli Anela.
“I can’t focus on my classes living in Long Beach, so I had to move back home in the Bay Area. I’ve been getting two to three hours of sleep just because I’m so anxious about being unemployed. This situation just feels neverending,” said Anela.
Schools have decided to transition online full-time with the possibility of a similar schedule in the fall.
The academic effects that isolation has caused include a decrease in focus, motivation and grades.
LBCC student Jaclyn Bree said, “This isolation has changed how productive I am in my classes and has made me really anxious. I was excited about transferring after this semester but now I’m worried about the future.”
Although it is mandatory to self-isolate physically, reaching out to others is recommended, being that mental-isolation is one of the worst solutions for mental health.
While isolation leaves plenty of room for depressive tendencies as listed above, it also provides underlying benefits that are easily overlooked.
For those in isolation with family members, roommates or significant others, this is a chance to grow closer together without the distractions that may have previously been in place prior to the COVID-19 quarantine.
Alternately, for those that are in isolation alone, this can be seen as a time to dedicate one’s undivided attention to oneself.
It is easy for individuals to get so caught up in the demands of everyday life, that they forget to put themselves first.
This is a time to start projects one has kept in mind, pick up a book or finally reach a goal.
It is important that one remembers emotional self-care is as crucial as physical care.
If you or anyone you know are facing emotional, mental or physical issues, the hotlines listed below offer help to those in need.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-(800)-273-8255
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-(800)-799-7233
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Helpline: 1-(800)-662-4357