Schizophrenia Research Foundation (SCARF) India recently did a cross sectional study on the association between family distress on loneliness and coping during COVID-19. Researcher Sanjana Goutham explains findings and suggests solutions.
Can you describe the study on loneliness during Covid-19?
The present study was done to estimate the prevalence of loneliness among general population during the COVID-19 pandemic in India. Along with that, association between family distress and loneliness and the differences in coping mechanisms used to overcome stress were also explored. The participants of the study were between the age group 18 years to 65 years of age. The study was carried out during a period of six weeks in the lockdown.
What were the key findings?
The key findings of the study are as follows:
- Young adults (Participants under the age of 30) are found to experience higher levels loneliness than participants above 30 years of age
- No difference among the number of men and women experiencing loneliness was found
- Family discord was associated with higher levels of loneliness experienced during the lockdown
- As the number of meaningful connections increases, the levels of loneliness experienced decreases among the participants
Explain the age difference in the findings?
Young people had many opportunities for social interactions outside their homes. Attending School/College or workplace, hanging out and planning activities with friends were some of the many ways of socializing for young people. The physical distancing and isolation of Covid-19, in addition with the uncertainty about one’s future flares up the impact of separation between young people. Job instability, financial burdens, fear of dear ones falling sick also contribute to the stress and loneliness experienced by the younger population. While in the older population, their family members (spouse and children) provided the needed social interactions and support, leading to less experience of loneliness.
The common perception is that Indians do not suffer from loneliness since we do not live alone. Could you explain how people can live with their family and still be alone, especially in the context of the findings
Scientists define loneliness as a distressing experience that occurs when one’s social relationships are perceived to be less in quantity, also, significantly in terms of quality. What this tells us is, even though we may have people around us – it does not necessarily imply the absence of loneliness. So, it is important for us to take a closer look at our existing relationships and see how we can strengthen them.
Our relationships are strong resources of our resilience, safety and support. These difficult times, call for us to optimize the quality of our relationships. Some simple and easy ways to do this is by spending a minimum of fifteen to twenty minutes with our loved ones every day, this can be enjoying a cup of tea with them or virtually connecting with them through a video call. The idea is not just spending time, but enriching the quality of the interaction.
While spending time with loved ones, if we are fully present in the moment, reduce any distractions and deeply listen, we automatically optimize the quality of time spent. In the conversations, one can simply check-in with their loved ones by asking how they are feeling, if there is something on their mind lately and they want to talk about it, how their day went. Another key to strengthening our bonds is to show our genuine appreciation and gratitude to ourselves and others.
Were digital platforms helpful in reducing isolation?
Technology and Digital platforms have been greatly facilitative in helping us connect with family and friends, continue our jobs or education, learn new skills and much more. It has helped some of us find a strong network of peers who share similar ideas, given us opportunities to find a community beyond our physical limitations currently.
But, an excessive use of digital platforms can also slowly and insidiously replace the “humanness” of our lives. The constant hustle culture and social comparisons on the internet can erode our sense of self and exacerbate feelings of loneliness. Our screens have started to overtake our already fast paced lives, leaving us with little to no time for self-reflection or pursuing hobbies. Therefore, a balance between online and “offline living” is essential. So, pick that book, cook a dish or write a letter to yourself, there are many things we can do without our phones!
Tell us about the different types of coping that people tried and what are most effective. Explain this from the scientific perspective as well.
From the study we have found that approach-based coping has been associated with a reduction in the feelings of loneliness, and greater wellbeing. Approach-based coping include positive reframing, acceptance, planning, seeking emotional support and instrumental support. Emotional support is seeking moral support, finding warm and nurturing connections that help alleviate loneliness. Instrumental support, on the other hand, is a more tangible, and/or physical help like sharing household chores. Planning, acceptance and positive reframing can also greatly facilitate coping during these times:
Planning: “What steps can I take to keep myself and others around me safe during these times?”
Acceptance: “Covid-19 has brought a major shift in my life but it is important for me to follow the necessary measures for myself and my community. I will remind myself that this will pass”
Positive reframing: “The pandemic has given me time to reflect and understand myself better, it has given me an opportunity to reconnect with my loved ones”
These are some examples of how changing the narrative can help us deal with worry during these times. Coping mechanisms like substance use, self-blame, denial have found be detrimental for a person's overall well-being and experiencing more loneliness.
What are the key takeaways for people in this extended state of lockdown and disruption? How can people learn to cope better?
These are uncertain times, and it can be comforting to acknowledge that we're all in this together and be compassionate to ourselves and those around us. We should reprioritize and rebuild are relationships with one and other. A sense of community and support can be especially comforting during times like these. An effective way to cope with the current situation is by sticking to a routine. Routines can add more structure to our day, keep us engaged and active. Lastly, we have all understood the importance of healthy habits. Eating nutritious food, getting a good 6-8 hours of sleep, engaging in physical activity; anything ranging from brisk walking to practicing yoga are ways we can take care of our body and mind during this pandemic.
Sanjana Goutham is a a Research Assistant at the Schizophrenia Research Foundation (SCARF), India with a keen interest in Community Mental Health and Advocacy. For recreation, I enjoy traveling, reading and dancing.
