Isolation is a common phenomenon for women in the perimenopause to post menopause transition. Whether the isolation is voluntary or a result of life circumstances, it’s not always a good or healthy thing to restrict your social circles and contacts.
During this time as the Coronavirus spreads and more us are being told to stay at home and it is easy to feel separate and alone.
What are the consequences of too much solitude, and what can we do when the isolation is involuntary?
Being social is good for us, even if you’re naturally an introvert, a little time with others is good for you. We’re healthier and tend to live longer when we interact with other humans. Being with others is known to boost our immune system.
When we have positive face-to-face contact, we get a burst of oxytocin, the “love” hormone that reduces cortisol levels leading to a reduction in stress. Human contact can lower our perception of pain, improve our ability to focus. Being with others can help to protect our brains from neurodegenerative disease, promote healthful habits like mindful eating and exercise, and reduce our risk of depression.
So what do you do when you want to want to go out, but you can’t quite make it happen at this time?
Stay in and in control. If “out” is overwhelming, spend time with your loved ones. Keep it low-key and within your limits
Take it high tech. If socialising is challenging, or if the thought of meeting actual people fills you with dread, make it easy on yourself. While online socialising may not provide all the same health benefits as in-person, it’s a smart gateway. Positive supportive Facebook groups are an excellent way to meet people like you.
It’s essential to take the pressure off the situation. Maybe even grab a virtual coffee with a friend and have a chat.
Most of all, understand that this isn’t you. The menopause plus the current Coronavirus situation can create shifts in hormones. And moods that are real and can be profoundly impactful. So do what you need to do. Maybe a date night with the partner. Or an online chat to take the pressure off the situation.
Just take the first step and make a plan that’s as loose or as detailed as you want.