People are an incredibly social species. This is one of the reasons why we have such strong brains and advanced intelligence; to keep an eye on numerous relationships better. Our social interactions influence how we think, act and see ourselves, since a large part of our brain is devoted to social cognition. Fully withdrawing any human contact is a recognized form of torture. The need for belonging is anchored in our DNA and drives us to close and maintain social bonds. But what happens when people live alone or are single? How does this affect your need for belonging?
Loneliness is on the rise
According to a survey by Economist and the Emperor Family Foundation, more than 22% of adults in the USA and 23% often or always feel lonely in the United Kingdom. Loneliness has become a growing problem that we will hear even more in the coming years.
Loneliness can make you sick
Loneliness can not only trigger psychological problems such as depression and anxiety, but also cause physical illnesses. UCLA researchers have found that social isolation triggers cellular changes that lead to chronic inflammation and predispose the lonely for serious physical illnesses such as heart diseases, stroke, metastasis and Alzheimer's. Loneliness can therefore affect not only the mental but also physical well -being.
The new world of single people
More and more people consciously choose to live alone or are single for various reasons. It is particularly important for these people to meet their needs for belonging and social interaction in other ways. But how can you do that?
Social interaction in the digital world
The Internet and social media offer single people the opportunity to get in touch with other people and to build social relationships. The digital world offers numerous platforms where people with similar interests can come together and exchange ideas. The Internet also enables people to get in touch with people who are geographically far away. The digital world thus offers many opportunities for social interaction and belonging.
Real-life interactions
Although the digital world offers many opportunities to maintain social interactions, single people should not forget that real interactions are just as important. It is important that you also establish and maintain social contacts outside the digital world. This can be done by participating in local groups or events where you can meet people with similar interests and exchange ideas with them.
Conclusion
The need for belonging and social interaction is a basic need for every person. Loneliness can affect both mental and physical well -being. But single people also have the opportunity to meet their needs for belonging and social interaction. In the modern world there are many different types of communities and social networks that offer single people the opportunity to build relationships and friendships without relying on a romantic relationship.
"The deep need for belonging is a central human motivation!" (Baumeister & Leary, 1995)
