Awaken from Isolation

Introduction

Isolation is an experience familiar to many, often resulting from social, emotional, or physical barriers that limit interactions with others. It can lead to significant adverse effects on both physical and mental health, impacting overall quality of life. This essay will explore the issue of isolation and its health impacts, integrating relevant research and literature. Drawing from my personal experience of incarceration, I will illustrate how isolation in prisons intensifies these effects, offering a unique perspective on this issue.

I had a conversation with my dear friend Paul Deitch 💡 My Network Is My Algorithm about this topic a couple of weeks back and about the importance of staying connected with the world. Paul graciously lifts me up, sharing his support and belief in my work. This is one of the very many connections that I have today, thanks to technology and our ability to get a higher education.

Prisoners and Isolation

Prisoners are among the most isolated groups in society, facing numerous obstacles to social interaction. My time in prison provided a firsthand understanding of the deep-seated isolation experienced by inmates. This essay will examine how this isolation affects prisoners' health and well-being, referencing relevant studies and literature for support.

The Multidimensional Issue of Isolation

Isolation is a complex issue arising from various causes, including geographical distance, illness, socio-economic status, and mental health conditions. The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights social isolation and loneliness as significant public health concerns with profound health implications. Studies such as those by Holt-Lunstad et al. (2010) and Hawkley & Cacioppo (2010) have shown that isolation can lead to serious physical health outcomes, emphasizing the gravity of this issue. I have seen it firsthand: people self-harming, becoming violent, and even separating more and more.

One friend, I will call Faith, was a prime example. Faith became more and more depressed, which led to a deeper isolation that brought about self-harm, violent behaviors, and even assaults. I watched with my own eyes human connection help that man stabilize and get grounded after a couple of near-death experiences. I often wonder what if Faith had the same connections that I have been able to build would he have felt as connected and cared for as I do in my life?

Prisoners' Isolation Experience

Prolonged social and emotional isolation is a harsh reality for many prisoners, leading to detrimental mental and physical health outcomes. The American Psychological Association (2017) points out the harmful psychological effects of solitary confinement. From my incarceration experience, I can attest to the damaging impact of isolation, which often results in reduced social skills and challenges in reintegrating into society post-release. This is why technology can play an important role in an individual's incarceration.

Isolation and Mental Health

Isolation is a critical factor in the development of mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety. Research, including the work of Wong et al. (2017), has shown a clear link between isolation, loneliness, and mental health issues. In the context of prison, the lack of social interaction can lead to a sense of hopelessness and disconnection, hindering successful reintegration into the community.

Isolation During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated isolation issues, with widespread social distancing and quarantine measures. Research, including studies by Killgore et al. (2020), indicates increased levels of depression, anxiety, and stress during the pandemic, associated with enforced isolation. This highlights the urgent need to address isolation in such unprecedented times.

Solutions to Isolation

Combating isolation requires enhancing social support networks and addressing its root causes, like poverty and mental health challenges. Community programs and initiatives can foster social connections and improve well-being. These solutions are vital in reducing the adverse effects of isolation on health. In my own experience, my online learning experience with graduate school, and my experience with a community called Xchange, my life has changed significantly. I have many deep connections with people who have played an essential role in my feeling connected. With technology, people can connect with their children, attend school, get jobs, and even learn a trade.

Addressing Prisoners' Isolation

To address the isolation faced by prisoners, several solutions have been proposed. Increasing access to educational and vocational programs online can provide meaningful activities and opportunities for social interaction. Giving prisoners the opportunity to attend groups, churches, meditation circles, and yoga programs can play a vital role in helping people heal and feel connected. Additionally, implementing alternatives to solitary confinement, such as rehabilitative housing units, can promote rehabilitation and positive social engagement.

Conclusion

Isolation is a significant problem with far-reaching effects on physical and mental health, particularly for prisoners. The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the need to address isolation more effectively and, at the same time, has opened doors to more significant connections to foster healthier transformations. By implementing educational programs and alternatives to solitary confinement, we can mitigate the impact of isolation, emphasizing the importance of social interaction and community support in improving health and well-being. We can all have an Awakening that will lead to greater outcomes for rehabilitation and we can share this Awakening with others.

References

Cacioppo, J. T., Cacioppo, S., Capitanio, J. P., & Cole, S. W. (2015). The neuroendocrinology of social isolation. Annual Review of Psychology, 66, 733-767.

Grassian, S., & Friedman, N. (1986). Effects of sensory deprivation in psychiatric seclusion and solitary confinement. International Journal of Law and Psychiatry, 8(1), 49-65.

Hawkley, L. C., & Cacioppo, J. T. (2010). Loneliness matters: a theoretical and empirical review of consequences and mechanisms. Annals of Behavioral Medicine, 40(2), 218-227.

Hawkley, L. C., & Cacioppo, J. T. (2020). COVID-19 and social isolation: the role of loneliness in a public health crisis. Journal of Gerontology: Series B, 76(3), e90-e95.

Holt-Lunstad, J., Smith, T. B., & Layton, J. B. (2010). Social relationships and mortality risk: a meta-analytic review. PLoS Medicine, 7(7), e1000316.

Killgore, W. D. S., Cloonan, S. A., Taylor, E. C., & Dailey, N. S. (2020). Loneliness: a signature mental health concern in the era of COVID-19. Psychiatry Research, 290, 113117.

Wolkowicz, N. (2017). Isolation and mental illness in prison: A qualitative review of the literature. Journal of Forensic Psychology Research and Practice, 17(2), 111-126

Wong, M. M., Ho, H. C., Wong, S. W. Y., & Chan, A. C. M. (2017). The effects of social isolation on older Chinese adults’ depressive symptoms: loneliness as a mediator. Journal of Gerontology: Psychological Sciences, 72(3), 444-452.

World Health Organization. (2018). World report on ageing and health. Geneva, Switzerland: WHO Press.