What is social isolation, and what are its potential effects?

Author: SCIRE Professional Team | Reviewer: Rachael Neal | Published: 23 July 2020 | Updated: ~

Historical pandemic information reproduced with its original publication context.

Social isolation is described as the absence of relationships, often due to physical separation from others. This differs from loneliness, which is a state of distress caused by feeling alone or separated.

Social isolation has been linked to various mental health issues, such as higher fatigue and depression rates. People who are socially isolated often report more difficulties with access and fewer close relationships.

People with SCI are not necessarily more vulnerable to the effects of social isolation. However, research shows a higher proportion of depression and anxiety in people with SCI compared to the general population. The COVID-19 pandemic may limit access to caregivers or peer support networks that people with SCI depend on which can worsen symptoms of depression and anxiety.