Isolation

The problem of isolation and social media is a conundrum—how can someone feel isolated, yet more connected than ever before?

The truth is, social media both augments our ability to communicate, and hinders it. Yes—we can now keep in touch with old friends, communicate across any distance, and see what our family, friends, and loved ones are doing at any given time. But there is also a hidden cost to this.

We, far too often, step away from those who are right in front of us in order to attend to those who are not present. We check Facebook at social gatherings. We Instragram pictures of our food at dinner. Our social world is often relegated to the screen.

This results in a feeling of isolation as we begin to miss the warmth of a smile, or the joy of a hug and good conversation. We become, in a sense, alone in the crowd.

A lack of in-person human contact and affection is a huge contributor to depression—one that can sneak up on us in our always-connected lifestyles.

Don’t be fooled—online contact is no replacement for in-person communication. Take the time to enjoy the presence of others without exiting the scene through the social media door. You’ll be all the happier for it.