Several studies have confirmed what people have known all along –living alone and loneliness can prompt a plethora of psychological illnesses. The studies have found an undeniable link between the two. These studies were conducted over a long stretch of time and included people across ages and sexes. The result revealed that neither is a factor and loneliness affects everyone the same way.
Common Mental Disorders or CMDs are two times more likely to afflict those who live on their own than those who live with family or others.
Previously the effect of living alone was tested only on the elderly. But because of changing lifestyle patterns and an increase in incident rates of mental disorders among people of all age groups. These tests began to be less specific and incorporate all irrespective of age or sex. The results revealed that young unmarried people who live alone have twice the risk of experiencing depression and anxiety attacks than their married counterparts who live with their spouse.
Similarly, another survey found that middle-aged people who live on their own do not boast robust psychological health.
Depression is a multi-faceted mental health condition, while loneliness is a transient emotional state.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Feelings of loneliness and dissatisfaction can be a factor in the development of depression.
Depression and loneliness are bedfellows. A study by the World Health Organization found that a staggering 300 million people worldwide suffer from different types of depression. Women are more susceptible to it than men are. Depression causes withdrawal from society. Its horrific symptoms are:
Must Read: Symptoms of Depression
Depression can prove to be fatal. There have been cases when people with depression have been driven to take their own lives.
Also Read: What are the Causes of Depression?
Studies have proved that if you are surrounded by people whose positivity and love uplift you, then you are less likely to turn to drugs or alcoholism. Drugs propel the secretion of dopamine – a happiness hormone. When dopamine floods through the system, loneliness and all the accompanying pain subside. This temporary release makes people want to experience it repeatedly. That is what makes them reliant on drugs.
Although living alone may have its own perks like giving oneself a personal space, allowing one to live the way one like and having total freedom, it doesn’t come without its cons like low self-esteem, drug/alcohol abuse and poor mental health.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
People who live alone invariably suffer from some sort of anxiety or another. They fear uncertainty and are crippled by an overwhelming sense of distress that may interfere with their daily activities. Sometimes it might prompt a panic attack, social anxiety disorders or particular phobias. Also, avoid the foods that cause anxiety.
This is one of the rarer fallouts of living alone. This is actually a vicious circle. Loneliness causes OCD and people with OCD are shunned by their peers, which amplifies their loneliness and makes their condition even more severe. One particular kind of OCD that lonely people may display is the habit of hoarding.
Living alone is a health hazard. It can wreck you mentally and in certain cases physically as well.
Also Read: What is Trypophobia: A Deep Dive into the Fear of Holes
Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.
