Reversing the negative effects of isolating young people

Young people are the backbone of a society & isolating young people, intentionally or unintentionally, especially in rural areas, can contribute to drug abuse, illegal and criminal actions, depression & migration. Teens isolate themselves and use technology for connection and distraction which puts them a greater risk of social media addiction.

The Negative Impact of Teenage Isolation
The effects of social isolation on mental health are overwhelmingly negative. Furthermore, ongoing loneliness and isolation can also create physical symptoms. Therefore, research shows that chronic loneliness has the following effects:

• Increased stress response and cortisol levels
• Less restful and less restorative sleep
• Negative impact on physical health; more detrimental for overall health than obesity, smoking, or high blood pressure
• Greater risk of suicide
• More alcohol and drug use
• Depression and anxiety
• Poor self-care, such as bathing, grooming, and nutrition
• Decrease in positive outlook

The Power of Connection
On the other hand, connecting with others creates a host of positive benefits, including:

• Higher-functioning immune system
• Better self-esteem
• Lower rates of anxiety and depression
• Happier, more optimistic outlook
• Longer life expectancy
• Stronger emotional regulation skills
• Improved cognitive function
• More empathy and feelings of trust toward others.

“Human beings are bonding animals. We need to connect and love. But we have created an environment and a culture that cut us off from connection or offer only the parody of it offered by the Internet.” —Johann Hari