Loneliness is a Cause, Not a Symptom

Our society, crumbling and deteriorating, has been plagued with suffering. Death, destruction, hate crimes, tragedies, and violence seem to underscore the state of humanity. All around, people are suffering from loss and harm. Among these issues, a common thread seems to be surging in our culture, especially in our youth: mental illness.

I spent the day in a truly fascinating in-service, learning about suicide prevention and mental health issues. As a teacher, I know for a fact there are a lot of students suffering the quiet battle, dealing with mental and emotional issues we can’t even fathom. With these issues, loneliness and isolation are often listed as symptoms.

But, if you think about it, I think loneliness, isolation, these are not just symptoms. For many, it’s the other way around. Loneliness and isolation are leading to issues with mental well-being, which in turn leads to bigger issues.

This is not to detract from the fact that mental issue is a true problem or diagnosis; it definitely is. But today, as I heard about suffering and issues, I realized how loneliness and isolation seem to be a common thread in those troubled by issues.

It makes sense. As humans, aren’t we wired to desire acceptance? Don’t we all crave connection, relationships, and friendships? In short, don’t we all want to feel something, to have others feel something for us?

Isolation isn’t the sole root of our society’s issues, and loneliness isn’t the only cause of mental issues. But I can’t help but think that if we could tear down a few barriers, focus on eliminating the distance between all of us, we could combat some of our society’s issues as well. At the very least, we could help some of our struggling adolescents find their place in the world, a place a little bit more welcoming and inviting than what we often offer.

The biggest message I learned today, whether dealing with someone who is suicidal, abusing substances, suffering from loss, or diagnosed with a mental issue, is that support is the most important thing. It doesn’t matter what you say as much as the fact you acknowledge the issue, acknowledge the feelings, and acknowledge that the person isn’t alone.

I think it’s a good message for every human being to internalize, teacher or not. Life is a raging battle everyday. No one should have to fight it alone. If you have been blessed, like me, to have suffered few hardships in your life, try to seek out those who may be feeling isolated, like losing hope. Sometimes it’s just a small connection that can lift a spirit, restore hope, and save a life.

Lindsay Detwiler