Summary of Issue
- Social Isolation: Chronic illness can lead to decreased social engagement and increase the risk for social isolation and feelings of disconnection and loneliness.
- Physical Limitations: Symptoms and physical limitations can restrict participation in social activities.
- Mental Health Impact: The ongoing stress of managing a chronic condition can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and depression.
Introduction
Living with a chronic illness presents ongoing challenges that can significantly impact social connections. Chronic conditions often lead to physical limitations, mental health struggles, and social isolation, all of which can reduce opportunities for meaningful social interactions. Understanding these barriers and exploring solutions can help individuals with chronic illnesses maintain strong social ties and improve their overall well-being.
Why the Barrier Exists
Several factors contribute to the social disconnection experienced by individuals living with chronic illnesses:
- Physical Limitations: Symptoms like pain, fatigue, and mobility issues can make it difficult to participate in social activities and maintain relationships.
- Stigma: The stigma associated with chronic illnesses can lead to misunderstanding and discrimination, making individuals hesitant to seek social engagement.
- Mental Health Impact: Chronic illness often coexists with anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues, further exacerbating feelings of loneliness.
Stat from the 2023 Canadian Social Connection Survey: According to the survey, 62.2% of Canadians living with a chronic illness report feeling lonely. Additionally, 14.0% of people with chronic illnesses report being lonely all the time.
Recommended Solutions
To reduce the negative impact of chronic illness on social connections and social health, consider these strategies:
- Join Support Groups: Participate in support groups for individuals with similar conditions to share experiences and build a sense of community.
- Leverage Technology: Use technology to stay connected with friends and family through video calls, social media, and online communities.
- Pace Yourself: Manage energy levels by pacing activities and setting realistic goals for social engagement.
- Advocate for Yourself: Educate others about your condition to reduce stigma and promote understanding.
- Seek Professional Support: Access mental health services to address the emotional impact of living with a chronic illness.
By joining support groups, leveraging technology, and advocating for oneself, individuals living with chronic illnesses can reduce social isolation and build stronger, more meaningful connections.
Expert Insight
A 2024 study of loneliness in people with chronic illness identified three main themes participants experienced. “First, loneliness was conceptualised relationally as ‘invisibility of self’; second, the temporal dimension of loneliness was encapsulated in the idea of ‘being left behind’; and a third dimension, living life on the periphery, was evident as participants described how they were ‘spectators of social life’” (Lewis et al., 2024)
Community Resources/Solutions
To help manage the impact of chronic illness on social connections and social health, various organizations and groups provide support and opportunities for social connection:
- GenWell
- Description: Is Canada’s Human Connection Movement and is working to educate, empower and catalyze Canadians around the importance of their social health.
- How it Helps: They provide tips, tools, resources and campaigns that can inspire social connection for all Canadians
- Contact Information: Visit website at www.GenWell.ca for more information.
- Meetup
- Description: A platform for finding and building local communities, connecting people with similar interests.
- How it Helps: Encourages participation in local social groups and events, reducing isolation in shared living environments.
- Contact Information: Visit website for local group details.
- Volunteer Canada
- Description: Connects individuals with volunteer opportunities across Canada, fostering community engagement.
- How it Helps: Provides opportunities to meet new people and build social connections through volunteering.
- Contact Information: Email: [email protected]
- Canadian Arthritis Society
- Description: Provides support and resources for individuals living with arthritis.
- How it Helps: Offers educational materials, support groups, and advocacy for better care.
- Contact Information: Phone: 1-800-321-1433
- Diabetes Canada
- Description: Supports Canadians living with diabetes through education, resources, and advocacy.
- How it Helps: Provides information on managing diabetes and opportunities to connect with others.
- Contact Information: Phone: 1-800-226-8464
- Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada
- Description: Offers support for individuals living with multiple sclerosis.
- How it Helps: Provides support groups, educational resources, and community programs.
- Contact Information: Phone: 1-844-859-6789
- Chronic Pain Association of Canada (CPAC)
- Description: Supports individuals living with chronic pain through advocacy and education.
- How it Helps: Offers information, support groups, and advocacy for better pain management.
- Contact Information: Email: [email protected]
Further Reading
- Canadian Psychological Association: Well-sourced scientific information on how chronic illness and pain affect mental health.
- How to Build Community Support & Self-Love When Living With a Chronic Illness published by VeryWell Mind.
- There but not really involved: The meanings of loneliness for people with chronic illness published in Social Science & Medicine.
- “The Link Between Chronic Illness and Loneliness” published in Psychology Today.