The pandemic hasn’t spared anyone. However, some age groups can feel the heat even more. For example, you can think of someone belonging to the age group of more than 18 to 24. It can be astonishing, but data suggest that many 20-somethings suffer from an acute sense of loneliness. Besides, people in the bracket of 18 to 24 reported suicidal tendencies. That these people are mostly single or have no kids. Since many live away from their families, they only have video calls to connect with them. Brian C Jensen says besides, some youngsters may have moved in to live with their parents until the pandemic ends. But the troubled relationships with their families compel them to languish. Earlier, these people had their office friends and other contacts to approach. Then, those who completed their graduation to find their place in the workplace are also in limbo.
These young adults fear that they can never make friends, romantic relationships, and so on. Some believe their lives have come to a halt.
The impact of COVID-induced loneliness on mental health and prevention by Brian C Jensen
Side-effects of being lonely
Loneliness leads to emotional pain due to the expectations about your relationships. However, it has to do more about how you feel about your social connections. Since the pandemic has caused social and physical distancing, young adults suddenly feel at a loss. They have started doubting whether those people truly cared for them. As a consequence, they experience sadness, disappointment, stress, loneliness, and isolation. While loneliness was already there even before the pandemic, social distancing and isolation have only triggered it more.
The risks of suicides among them can be higher if someone in their family already died by this. It can look like the only option to them when they suffer from depressing thoughts. Hence, it is essential to pay attention to their mental state, opines Brian C Jensen.
Preventive measures
If you don’t want to lose your loved one, you have to help them. Talk to the person and encourage them to share their concerns with you. When they speak about their problems, you have to listen to them. Don’t lose your control even if something disturbs you. They expect you to be patient and understanding.
If they think of harming themselves, you can ask them directly what they want to do and determine how they plan to do it. Let your person know that you are there if ever such thoughts cross their mind. And when you leave the place, you should connect with your trusted people and therapists.
Of course, it is not an easy process. Not everyone can deal with these situations. Still, you can try to alert others if you learn about your loved one’s mental condition. Mobilizing social support and professional help can prove a practical step in this direction. They can even save your dear one from falling into the trap of mental illness.
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