The swift ushering in of social distancing in response to COVID-19 reshaped our daily lives and introduced a ‘new normal’ that was anything but. While physical distancing measures were evident everywhere, the invisible emotional toll they took on us was profound and pervasive. In this blog, we’ll delve into the emotional impacts that social distancing has had and consider the less tangible yet significant cost to our emotional well-being.
Understanding Our Innate Social Nature
Humans are wired for social connection; it’s a fundamental aspect of our being, essential for mental and emotional well-being.[1] The imposition of social distancing has been at odds with this need, placing an unseen burden on our psyche. Research consistently affirms the role of social connections in reducing stress and enhancing life satisfaction.[2] The social void created by distancing measures has led to a significant imbalance in our emotional health, leaving many feeling adrift without their usual social support.
The Phenomenon of ‘Skin Hunger’
The concept of ‘skin hunger’ speaks to the craving for physical human contact—a touch, a hug, or a reassuring pat—that has gone largely unfulfilled during social distancing’s peak.[3] The human touch is not just comforting but necessary for maintaining emotional bonds. Its absence can lead to measurable psychological distress, manifesting in heightened anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation.
The Double-Edged Sword of Digital Communication
Digital platforms became a bridge for interaction during the height of social distancing, but they also brought to light the shortcomings of virtual connections. The phenomenon of ‘Zoom fatigue’—the exhaustion from extensive video interactions—began to surface, illustrating the limitations of digital communication.[4] These platforms, while essential, cannot fully replicate the emotional richness of face-to-face interactions.
The Erosion of Social Skills
Prolonged social distancing has led to a noticeable decay in social skills for people of all ages. Children who learn social cues and interactions through school and play found their social development curtailed.[5] Adults also experienced a decline in social fluency once taken for granted, resulting in a newfound awkwardness in social settings that had been familiar before the pandemic.
Mental Health Repercussions
Mental health professionals have seen an increase in loneliness, depression, and anxiety, underscoring the profound impact of social distancing on our psychological state.[6] The disruption to social support networks, which often help us manage stress, amplified the emotional strain many were under, with physical isolation taking on a new and heavier meaning.
Building Resilience and Coping Strategies
In confronting these emotional challenges, many have sought solace in nature, taken up hobbies, or engaged in virtual therapy sessions. Such coping mechanisms have become essential tools for emotional survival. Additionally, the emergence of community-driven support exemplifies the collective resilience and adaptability that has been key to navigating this period.
Moving Forward with Lessons Learned
The pandemic has reinforced the value of social interaction and the necessity of nurturing our emotional health alongside our physical well-being. It has become clear that the resources allocated for mental health support must remain available and expanded.[7] As we reshape our lives post-pandemic, the insights gained about our emotional needs will be vital in fostering environments that support safety and emotional fulfillment.
Conclusion
Social distancing, while crucial for physical health, has illuminated the intricate balance required to maintain emotional health. The collective experience of the pandemic has demonstrated our resilience and capacity for compassion. As we look to the future, it’s important to preserve the sense of community and understanding that has helped us endure these times and to embrace the comprehensive nature of our social being in a connected world.
References:
- Umberson, Debra, and Jennifer Karas Montez. “Social relationships and health: a flashpoint for health policy.” Journal of Health and Social Behavior vol. 51 Suppl, Suppl (2010): S54-66. doi:10.1177/0022146510383501
- Goldberg, Susan, et al. Attachment Theory: Social, Developmental, and Clinical Perspectives. Routledge, 2016.
- Ellingsen, Dan-Mikael et al. “The Neurobiology Shaping Affective Touch: Expectation, Motivation, and Meaning in the Multisensory Context.” Frontiers in psychology vol. 6 1986. 6 Jan. 2016, doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2015.01986
- Riedl R. “On the stress potential of videoconferencing: definition and root causes of Zoom fatigue.” Electron Mark. 2022;32(1):153-177. doi: 10.1007/s12525-021-00501-3. Epub 2021 Dec 6. PMID: 35600914; PMCID: PMC8645680.
- Orben, Amy, et al. “The effects of social deprivation on adolescent development and mental health.” The Lancet. Child & Adolescent Health vol. 4,8 (2020): 634-640. doi:10.1016/S2352-4642(20)30186-3
- “Covid-19 Pandemic Triggers 25% Increase in Prevalence of Anxiety and Depression Worldwide.” World Health Organization,www.who.int/news/item/02-03-2022-covid-19-pandemic-triggers-25-increase-in-prevalence-of-anxiety-and-depression-worldwide.
- Brandt, Lasse, et al. “The effects of social isolation stress and discrimination on mental health.” Translational psychiatry vol. 12,1 398. 21 Sep. 2022, doi:10.1038/s41398-022-02178-4