There is a natural tendency to isolate oneself from people when things are not going well. The natural man hides in his cave when he feels the weight of the world.
Time alone in a quiet place for an hour or two is okay, but extended withdrawal may not be.
Withdrawal is what creates room for anxiety. The mind ponders and overthinks the problem; In so doing, it stretches it more than it should be. The after effect then becomes negative thoughts, moodiness which in its way results in irritation and other emotional health symptoms.
Staying around people during challenging moments is important. That laughter you get around loved ones is medicinal. My favourite book add:
A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones
The power of constant laughter, no antidepressant can replace. It eases you. It reduces the weight of the burden.
Research also shows that a good social network reduces the likelihood of loneliness, sadness or even low self-esteem. When one Is going through a low moment, it is advised to spend time with the knitted social network; during chats and fun, you are less likely to think about challenges, in so doing laughter and smiles happen more. Continuous intense laughter makes a massive difference in our coping mechanism.
When one laughs, the body produces good hormones like endorphins. Endorphins in return reduce the actions of stress hormones (cortisol, epinephrine, dopamine) that cause sadness and irritability, thus providing emotional and physical relief from the distress.
The relationship I am referring to here is the one that allows you to be yourself. The ones you don’t have to pretend just to feel accepted.
This shoe fits any friend or family member who appreciates and though may not understand you all the time still loves you. Those whose torchlight shines in your part when yours have gotten dimmed by the challenges that overwhelm you. They constantly give you a positive vibe whenever you are with them. Time with them is uplifting, and you gain positive energy with every moment you spend with them.
You can’t pretend, and even when you try, they can smell your next move, and they still love you regardless of your shortcomings. Any relationship that describes this has the key to unlocking your innermost strength.
Psychologist Christopher Peterson is well known for his motto ‘’people matter.’’ The energy that comes from a short fun moment with a loved one is indispensable. We are made for FELLOWSHIP. We need one another to maintain healthy mental well being.
We should consciously spend time in good relationships that help our well being. Relationships are like flowers that need watering to blossom, and most times, to enjoy the mental benefits from a relationship, we have to make some sacrifices from our end.
Create the time needed for social outings. Time is one price to pay. Most of the time, we claim to be busy. You can start by taking the first step to paying a close friend a visit or ask them out to see a show. In so doing you are creating an atmosphere for a good rapport. At work too, you can decide not to take lunch alone but offer to share a table with other colleagues as you chat while and after eating. Usually when in a stressful period one would prefer to be alone and not respond to phone calls. Reaching out to people on the phone also should be a decision one must make.
As much as it is great to spend time with the close social network during low moments, one must be careful to choose their network wisely. During a stressful period, some relationships can cause more damage than good. The positive impact one each relationship must be assessed.
I have experienced the transforming power of good friends.
You need people, so treat them like you need them. At your low, it is encouraging words and genuine love for people that you will need not your job, car or house. Make an effort to connect daily.
