Social Isolation and Depression - serious problems

Large cities can be isolating

In today’s day and age everybody is busy, rushed and doesn’t really have much time for anything. Even though big cities are full of people many elderly feel isolated and alone.

Social Isolation leads to loneliness, which leads to sadness and may even lead to clinical depression. Depression is a serious illness that impacts not only quality of life but also affects your health and may possibly increase your risk of dying in certain circumstances. 

Social Isolation and Depression Haunt

Unfortunately, there is a vicious circle. Once people are depressed it becomes very difficult to think of fun things to do or to even enjoy simple pleasures. Additionally, depression affects energy level, motivation and may lead to increased pain perception – which in turn diminishes morale, energy and motivation even more. And there we are: even more social isolation and sadness.

Best is not to even get there. And if you did: Break the cycle! There is hope! 

I will come back to this topic of depression regularly, as it is relevant and important.

Today I want to encourage you to stay involved, active and to participate in meaningful activities. Check the internet for activities in your area. Ask around. If you really have no clue: find a senior center, a social worker or case manager to help you. (If you don’t know how to find those: ask your doctor).

In New York there is an amazing organization on the Upper West Side. It is called Dorot (click here for their website). They have a bunch of volunteers of all ages who are committed to spend time with elderly in the community. All different kind of activity can be arranged. They even have what they call “University without walls” a curriculum (click here to see it) of diverse classes that can be accessed from the comfort of your own home via the phone. Quite amazing!

I encourage you to look for resources like this in your community as well. Ask around. There will always be lovely people who are willing to give their time in order to enrich someone else’s life!

If you feel terribly depressed, and you cannot concentrate on simple tasks or even live your daily life anymore:

Speak to your physician!

There is hope!

This is a serious problem and it is not your fault! There is an imbalance in the chemistry of your brain and we have options how to treat these. For the most severe cases you may even need a psychiatrist. Don’t shy away from it.

Nobody likes to be ill but the first step for getting better always includes facing reality.

I wish you well.

And remember: you are not alone! 

Dr. B