INTRODUCTION

I read a story of a student’s response when asked to define ‘darkness’. He said the best way to really understand the ‘dark’ was to experience light – and then to know its absence.

A similar contrast might illuminate our understanding of ‘Social Rehabilitation’. Let’s consider its’ opposite – isolation.

Isolation was a national goal at one time. In the first half of the 19^th century, we tried to avoid troubles that shook other parts of the world – hoping this could keep us safe. Thinking in political terms of protection – we attempted to limit contact, conflict, and trade with other nations.

History records our disappointments. Healthy isolationism proved impossible to maintain and failed its protective purpose.

Isolation is a classic and potentially dangerous ‘risk’ of depression. It relates to personal protectionism (an intentional, or unconscious, attempt to limit exposure to conflicting views or judgments)?

I can’t speak for you, but I have known days of illness or injury where I wanted to avoid others. I didn’t want to spend my energy or to risk exposing anyone else to my ‘germs’ – or to expose myself to others’ poor opinion of my appearance, or performance.

THE PROBLEM

It may seem like isolation is a good plan when we’re feeling down. But, outside of quarantine, it’s not such a good idea. In fact, rather than ‘protecting’ us, isolation can be dangerous.

I have read that isolation (and loneliness) can take years from your life-time; contribute to high blood pressure, heart failure, breast cancer, accidental injury, and contribute to a host of other difficulties (including dementia). Hundreds of studies confirm these risks.

We can legitimately view isolation as both a contributing cause of depression and as a classic, painful effect. It’s a double punch that can knock us down – for a count.

SOLUTIONS

We can flip this view. If isolation rains these woes down upon us – then connection may lift us in the opposite direction.

Rewards of staying connected include longer life, fewer accidental injuries, sharper minds and memory, and other benefits including opportunities for more Love, Laughter, and FUN – even in the shadows of an emotional valley.

Isolation is a special concern in the current pandemic. Quarantine and ‘shelter in place’ orders leave many alone. We need connections.

If we can’t meet in person, we need to find other ways to get together. Using today’s technology we can have virtual gatherings on media such as Zoom, Skype calls, Google Hang Outs, and other on-line meeting sites. Sites such as Facebook can be a blessing or a curse, depending upon our focus. Scroll past negative ‘rants’ quickly and seek out positive contacts. We should try to avoid ‘venting’ our own negativity, or getting stuck in that of others.

Share whatever ‘good stuff’ you can, and be lifted up by positive contacts. If technology is not a friend – we can get outside (with masks and/or social distance). We can also pick up a phone (make it a VOICED call — not just a text).  Engage the senses as much as possible. If you bake – take some fresh goodies to a friend (call to alert them you’ll leave something on their doorstep) … or show up and share some artwork – or wave through a window. Send cards and letters, or find other imaginative ways to meet up. It’s worth the effort.

CONCLUSION

Depression can rob us of our strength and energy. It can sap our motivation, distract us from our positive goals, and breed the desire for even more protection and isolation – compounding our weaknesses.

We have more power than we may feel. We do have choices, and we do always have help – when we remember to ask for it.

“For I am the Lord your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you ‘Do not fear’, I will help you.”   Isaiah 41:13

Is it a struggle? YES. Is it worth the effort? YES, without doubt.

Find strength and encouragement in knowing – you are not alone. When we connect with each other – we can share wisdom and learn from each other, and we can encourage each other through our shared experience. Let’s get through this together.

More encouragement: “… They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.” Psalm 126:5

Blessings, Love and Laughter,

Marge

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