Social isolation occurs when a person actively removes themselves from social interactions. For people suffering from social isolation, their primary goal is to spend time alone. Mostly they prefer to spend time away from people. When a person is physically isolated, they may live in a remote area or work in a job where they are alone for much of their day.
Becoming socially isolated is a choice a person makes when they no longer want to spend time with others. It’s important to note the differences between spending time alone and being socially isolated. We all need time to think, read, relax, or unwind in solitude. Time alone can help a person slow down from the fast pace of life and can be revitalizing and recharge. Many enjoy their own company and are comfortable alone and in social settings. For people with social isolation issues, however, there is a different reason why they need to be alone.
Part of social isolation occurs when a person lacks social relationships. People may stay home for long periods when socially isolated before leaving the house. They may go days without speaking to anyone else. People who struggle with social isolation lack the desire to form meaningful, long-term relationships. If you prefer social isolation, you will go to great lengths to avoid relationships and interactions with others, making them as brief as possible without having to engage in lengthy conversations.
Social isolation is not a condition on its own; however, it may be a symptom of a more significant problem like a mental illness. With social isolation, a person loses pleasure in going out, and what they once enjoyed turns to stress, worry, fear, and anxiety. Social interaction becomes something dreaded instead of what they look forward to. Social isolation can hurt your relationships and may drive friends and family away the more you refuse to join them in social settings.
Therapy can help people who are afraid to interact with others overcome their fear of interacting with others.