Loneliness, Social Isolation, and Increased Inflammatory Markers

As reported by science daily a new research journal has just come out in the Neuroscience & Biobehaviour Journal.   It shows that social isolation may be associated with increased inflammation.  The research involved a systemic review of 30 studies looking at the effects of both loneliness and social isolation on inflammation.  Loneliness showed to increase interleukin-6 while social isolation showed to increase C-reactive protein and fibrinogen and men were more likely to display these inflammatory markers compared to women.
Based on this research I think we need to take a look at the difference between loneliness and being alone because the two are quite different.  One we can control and the other we cannot.  The one we cannot is simply an emotion - lonely and by recognizing it in the body it seems to come less often, being aware of each time you feel it allows one to redirect any negative thoughts about it, and journaling helps to get to the bottom of it! 
Now, with the lock-down dealing with the being alone issue is going to be more challenging, but not impossible.  The internet makes it easier and easier to connect; so, next time you are having a meal way not do it over Skype or messenger and with someone else?  Don't have anyone else google "Mukbang" and your guaranteed to find someone to eat with.   Netflix now has party extensions where you can get a group together and all watch at the same time.  Or my absolute favorite, having a glass of wine or cider with a friend while doing an online painting or drawing tutorial!  

If none of this works get outside into nature, do some yoga / online dance classes, keep busy cleaning and organizing, or learn a new skill!   Your health depends on it! 

Photo by Taryn Elliott

References:
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/03/200305132136.htm?utm_source=All+Professionals+%28Matrix+Minutes%29&utm_campaign=9b29e82735-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_01_22_10_08_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_d022cb60ef-9b29e82735-453646597

​https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0149763419308292?via%3Dihub