Notes on: The Difference Between Loneliness and Isolation

'The Difference Between Loneliness and Isolation' is taken from the course, 'Managing Happiness,' by Arthur Brooks on edX.org.

Physical distance does not measure how close we are or feel to others. This highlights the key distinction between being surrounded by others yet feeling lonely, and being completely isolated from others yet not feeling lonely.

“Solitude expresses the glory of being alone, whereas loneliness expresses the pain of feeling alone.” - Paul Tillich

What is loneliness?

Social scientists define loneliness as a unique condition in which someone perceives them self to be socially isolated, even when surrounded by other people. Emotionally speaking, loneliness is a signal from the brain and body that your needs are not being met, not matter who is around you.

In the brain, loneliness impacts the rudimentary nervous system as it stimulates the neurons and signals in the brain that control cravings. When we feel filled by our social experiences, our brain activates a pleasant signal, and when we feel hungry for social connection, our brain activates a negative signal.

Loneliness also takes a toll on the body and can be compared to heavy smoking. Some negative affects include:

• diminished immunity and impulse control

• heightens the risk of metabolic syndrome making it harder to control our weight

• an estimated 26% increase in the likelihood of death.

While many people might be able to survive or even thrive in isolation, in the long term, loneliness kills.

Loneliness has a negative effect on happiness, but fortunately, interventions to decrease loneliness have been shown to increase overall wellbeing. The actions we take influence the circuitry of our brain and have a long term impact on our health and happiness.