6) Ensuring Best Writing Practices

Coping with loneliness during the Covid-19 pandemic

Are you dealing with loneliness? According to this article from Statista, as many as 30% of adults are feeling lonely at one time, so it's likely that most adults have experienced loneliness at some point in their life. Causes of loneliness can include being isolated, having a major life change, being part of a marginalized group, and other causes (see here), so it's easy to be affected by it at some point. This can also have a major effect on your health, even leading to shortening your life by multiple years (source).

A major global event like the pandemic can both trigger loneliness and make loneliness worse for those who already have it. If this is happening to you, it's important to reach out for support. You can reach out on 7cups, find a therapist, or reach out to friends and family. All of these methods can reduce loneliness or reduce the severity.

This article from Forbes also has other coping mechanisms, such as finding hobbies and volunteering. It's important to find coping strategies that work for you. Also, it can be a good idea to combine multiple coping strategies, which is going to comprehensively support you.

If you need further guidance about how to deal with loneliness, the pandemic, or other complicating factors, here are two relevant article series that 7cups provides in our trainings.

Loneliness

Anxiety

@walkalot

@walkalot

Informative, with a lot of links, and facts. Just it needs more empathy.

@SoulfullyAButterfly read and understood.

@SoulfullyAButterfly

Coping with Loneliness During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Ways to cope with loneliness during this pandemic

Coping with loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic can be challenging, but there are strategies that can help. First, maintain social connections virtually by scheduling regular video calls with friends and family. Engage in hobbies or activities that bring you joy and provide a sense of fulfillment. Take advantage of online communities and support groups to connect with like-minded individuals. Prioritize self-care by establishing a routine that includes exercise, healthy eating, and quality sleep. Limit exposure to news and focus on positive and uplifting content. Lastly, consider seeking professional help through teletherapy or professional counseling if feelings of loneliness persist. Remember, you are not alone, and there are resources available to support you. These strategies were inspired by this article which can be found here.

@SoulfullyAButterfly

Coping with Loneliness during COVID 19 pandemic in the Netherlands

During these challenging times, it is crucial to prioritize the well-being of older individuals who may be experiencing increased loneliness. While their mental health remains stable, the pandemic has affected their emotional connections. To combat isolation, maintain regular contact with loved ones through phone calls, emails, social media, or video conferences. Stick to routines for eating, sleeping, and enjoyable activities to provide a sense of normalcy. Learn simple daily exercises to maintain mobility at home during quarantine. Seek practical help when needed, such as arranging transportation or obtaining necessary supplies. Remember, support is available from family, friends, and neighbors. Together, we can navigate these difficulties with empathy and care.

Sources https://academic.oup.com/psychsocgerontology/article/76/7/e249/5881273

WHO

@SoulfullyAButterfly

Loneliness before and during the Covid pandemic

Loneliness is an unpleasant feeling of being alone and separated. This feeling is quite common in elder members of the society. It is often observed that people who like to stay indoors end up feeling lonely. However, chronic loneliness can harm a person’s mental health. Surprisingly, it is also associated with a plethora of cardiovascular diseases. During the pandemic, we got to see an increase in people with this condition. Due to the implementation of social distancing, there was a physical social disconnection among the members of the society. The feeling of solitude, social isolation and lack of family support became a matter of concern. The quote" Man is by nature a social animal "is indeed true.

Research conducted in Norway shows the effects of loneliness before and during Covid.

Locked and lonely? A longitudinal assessment of loneliness before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in Norway (sagepub.com)

Sources:

COVID-19 pandemic led to increase in loneliness around the world (apa.org)

Loneliness and social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic - PMC (nih.gov)

@blindDaisy9121

Amazing job with explaining loneliness and ways that it affects people physically and emotionally. Also great that you provided the sources below of the information. One thing to improve is to cite the facts within the paragraph.

@SoulfullyAButterfly

Connecting with Support through Social Media

One way for people to cope with loneliness during the COVID-19 Pandemic is connecting with one’s support system such as through social media. According to studies, social media when used daily or less often leads to less social and emotional loneliness amongst people of different ages, particularly middle and older aged groups (Bonsaken et al 2021). This study was completed with a demographic who generally had a higher education, employed and cohabilitating witb a souse or partner. Bonsaken et al. (2021) adds that using social media several times a day and Smokey young adult age groups have more emotional loneliness. According to the article “Managing isolation and loneliness during COVID-19” social media can be helpful if used wisely to maintain connections with people such as family or friends. From Psychology Today, people reported that generally those with initially have other to connect with have felt less lonely using social media compared to those who were lonely before the pandemic who did not benefit from using social media. Other virtual activities such as online support groups and video chatting with friends have aldo been told to cope with loneliness

Sources:

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/20563051211033821

https://www.mass.gov/info-details/managing-isolation-and-loneliness-during-covid-19#:~:text=Consider%20creative%20ways%20to%20deal,feel%20less%20sad%20or%20upset.

https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/digital-world-real-world/202303/loneliness-and-social-media-use-amid-and-after-the-pandemic?amp

@SoulfullyAButterfly

Coping with Loneliness During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Changes in College Environment

Stages of the pandemic brought around many new enforced social expectations both in personal and professional environments. In my case, I was forced to move off my college campus at the start of the pandemic in early April and courses quickly moved to online leaving me stuck at home for most or all of the week unless to go out for necessities. Whether it be missing socializing or relationships or events, even before the pandemic waves took over it was difficult to balance life to avoid loneliness. Once the safety measures for the waves were put in place, being confined or forced to stay in an uncomfortable environment without the freedom to get out to experience central social exchanges affected a large amount of individuals. Specifically those in higher education with lower subject health, often associated with a stereotypical college students diet. A study showed higher social loneliness in those situations but those who lived with partners are more likely to walk away from pandemic confinement due to the oxytocin released.
Many in living situations without partners resorted to other coping behaviors such as mental disengagement and humor through social media and memes, researching various topics of interest, focusing on spiritual/personal growth with extreme success rates in improving states of loneliness.

During the pandemic, some still working had opportunities to have constant social exchanges that might not have always been received by a warm, welcome heart while some were stuck at home behind a computer wishing for more. Coping mechanisms are an important part of any situation, but there is always hope at the end of the tunnel.

Lampraki, C., Hoffman, A., Roquet, A., & Jopp, D. (2022). Loneliness during COVID-19: Development and influencing factors. PLOS ONE, 17(3), e0265900. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0265900

Europe PMC. (n.d.). Europe PMC. https://europepmc.org/article/ppr/ppr309443

@SnowTabby
Hello, Snow. Awesome work on your paragraph!

🔹 Strengths:

• I love how you combine your personal experiences with expert insights
• reputable sources
  
• great use of a graphic to support your paragraph

🔹 Improvements: you can mention 7 Cups and use your referral link or this self help guide to loneliness https://www.7cups.com/how-to-deal-with-loneliness/

The 5 Creative Ways to Cope with Loneliness during Isolation

Everyone experiences loneliness. During self-isolation, it helps to remember that you’re also protecting those who are more vulnerable. Here are five ways to alleviate loneliness:

1. Change Your Perspective
   • It’s normal to feel lonely during isolation. However, loneliness is something that we shouldn’t be ashamed of. It is inevitable and something we can all bond over together. We should normalise loneliness and boredom as natural parts of the human experience. Instead of trying to reduce loneliness, we can lean into the experience and cope in healthy ways (Eugene Therapy, 2020).
2. Further Your Self-understanding
   • Loneliness can open up opportunities. We can transform loneliness into solitude. Use solitude for self-discovery; engage in activities where our authentic self comes to the surface (Eugene Therapy, 2020).
3. Talk about Your Feelings
   • Instead of saying, “I’m fine,” talking about feeling lonely will likely lead to others admitting they feel the same way or offering to connect more (Eugene Therapy, 2020). If you’re struggling with loneliness, you can reach out to listeners and communities on 7 Cups.
4. Use Social Media Wisely
   • The way we use social media matters. Negative interactions include terrifying ourselves by reading all the news about upsetting events, jealously watching someone else’s curated content, and passive scrolling. However, messaging close ones is more meaningful, less solitary, and more uplifting (Jasmine Chen, 2020).
5. Use More Connective Tech & Resources
   • Less-isolating ideas for using tech:
     • check-ins with friends & family on FaceTime,
     • virtual game nights or hobby clubs over Zoom, and
     • online workshops/classes (Eugene Therapy, 2020).
   • There are many other online resources to stay active, e.g., CBT, streamed concerts, 3-D walkthroughs of museums and zoos, audiobooks, and music playlists (Jasmine Chen, 2020; Mass.gov).

Sources:

• Eugene Therapy. 2020. Rethink How You Cope With Loneliness During COVID, (online) available at https://eugenetherapy.com/article/rethink-how-you-cope-with-loneliness-during-covid/ (accessed 6 August 2023).
• Jasmine Chen. 2020. 7 Solutions for Loneliness During Coronavirus Quarantine, (online) accessible at https://www.lifeintelligence.io/blog/7-solutions-for-loneliness-during-coronavirus-quarantine (accessed 6 August 2023).
• Mass.gov. Managing isolation and loneliness during COVID-19, (online) available at https://www.mass.gov/info-details/managing-isolation-and-loneliness-during-covid-19 (accessed 6 August 2023).

@SilverSeastar
First, let me just say I appreciate your feedback and supplying me with a useful link. I will make sure to put it to good use.

The way you put together ways of coping during isolation was organized and easy to understand. I do not, however, feel like it fit in with the activity ask (of a paragraph, not a list). It could have been arranged in a paragraph manner to help it flow better as well. Lists tend to remove a level of empathy that reaches the reader as it comes across logical. Your method of expressing the facts is also incredibly logical rather than empathetic, which is great for some but it could use some balance.
I can tell you definitely used facts from reputable sources, which is incredible.
You seem to use variations of the word "loneliness" a lot, not leaving much space to utilize other important keywords.

Overall, I think it was put together beautifully as an informative article but I feel like it could use some empathetical balance to reach the reader a bit more. The effort here is amazing.
Maybe add a personal story or quote someone who used a few of these copying mechanisms and was successful in feeling better.

@SoulfullyAButterfly

Coping with Loneliness During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Introduction

Loneliness has been studied for many years. According to sciencedirect.com, “As early as 1973, Weiss (Weiss, 1973) argued that loneliness consisted of social aspect (i.e. inadequacies in the size of the social network) and emotional aspect (i.e. absence of intimate relationships).” During covid-19, no one was able to connect with one another due to the quarantine, thus minimizing our social network. The question is, how can we increase the amount of people in our social circle and how can we form meaningful relationships? 7 Cups is a website/app used to do this very thing. In this article we will be going over how 7 Cups communities, live chat with listeners, and group chats can increase the amount of people in your social life and form meaningful friendships who understand your life circumstances.

Sciencedirect.com

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022395620310748#bib40

@SoulfullyAButterfly

Coping with loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic

Managing Isolation and Loneliness during the Covid-19 Pandemic

Believe it or not, there are many ways for an individual to manage their loneliness or even isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic has created a lot of isolation and caused a lot of people to feel lonely. Not only that but their loneliness has been really affecting their mental health. One simple and easy outdoor task could be going for a walk while still being socially distant. If you do not have the ability to be physically active you can call a friend or even a family member. Many people have also been video calling their family and friends which consisted of a hangout. Another option could be spending time on social media but try not to overwhelm yourself. During pandemics, we see a lot of news stations, news articles, or even social media posts regarding the health crisis. Sometimes seeing too much of it can cause some anxiety. Lastly, you have the ability to reach out to online resources which enables you to do workshops right at home. Some great opportunities consist of virtual walk-throughs of the zoo, and museums, or even attending meditation classes.

@heathermarie95

oops my resource:

https://www.mass.gov/info-details/managing-isolation-and-loneliness-during-covid-19

@heathermarie95 great acknowledgement on disabilities and how it may hinder going outdoors!

Dealing with loneliness in COVID-19 quarantine

Dealing with loneliness during the COVID-19 quarantine is crucial for maintaining mental well-being. By implementing the following evidence-based strategies, individuals can navigate the challenges of quarantine-induced loneliness with resilience and improved psychological health. One such strategy is maintaining virtual connections with loved ones which Research has shown can mitigate the negative impact of social isolation (Marinucci 2022). In addition, creating a daily routine that incorporates activities such as exercise, reading, and hobbies has been linked to improved mood and a sense of purpose (Utah university 2021). Studies have emphasized the importance of limiting excessive screen time, as prolonged digital engagement can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and fatigue (Hunt 2018). Furthermore, Engaging in offline activities and practicing mindfulness techniques have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing stress and enhancing emotional well-being (Hoge 2018). Additionally, volunteering and assisting others have been associated with increased feelings of connection and personal fulfilment (Cleveland clinic 2022) so sites like 7Cups where you can volunteer remotely can be utilised for our own wellness. Overall, using a combination of these strategies will likely create the best effect in these difficult time.

@MaggieListens00

Hi Maggie. I really like how you linked the words to the resources. You provided some great information on ways to navigate loneliness during COVID.

One thing I would encourage you to do is write the sources beneath the article and incorporate a subheading. I also suggest you link 7 Cups (which you mentioned in the paragraph) as you did with your sources.

Coping with Loneliness During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The Power of Connecting to Others and Yourself

Loneliness is a feeling that everyone experiences at some point in their life, however, during the lockdown with the COVID-19 pandemic, many people experienced an increase in loneliness. According to Hwang et al. (2020), research indicates that while loneliness and social isolation are distinct, both can significantly impact one's mental well-being. The good news is that there are several things you can do to combat loneliness. For example, the use of technology, such as social media platforms, Skype, and Zoom is a great way to connect with others.

It may not feel the same as spending time in person, however, connecting with others is extremely important to combat feelings of loneliness. Another great way to connect with others online is through mental health support websites, such as 7 Cups. For instance, 7 Cups has a plethora of resources for loneliness, including this loneliness growth path that has a playlist of feel-good songs. Music is a great way to regulate your mood and can be very comforting. Remember, it’s okay to ask for support. You're not alone in feeling lonely, and there are folks out there who really want to help and support you.

Sources:

Hwang, T., Rabheru, K., Peisah, C., Reichman, W., & Ikeda, M. (2020). Loneliness and social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic. International Psychogeriatrics, 32(10), 1217-1220. doi:10.1017/S1041610220000988

https://mhanational.org/covid-19-and-loneliness-when-it-seems-no-one-cares

@kindheartedLily I really like your response it's very empathetic. I also loved how you added the links in the response making it very efficient and quick. I think if I had to say something for you to work on maybe elaborating more on your point in the first paragraph.

@Clarezg

Thank you!😊

@SoulfullyAButterfly

Coping with Loneliness during Covid-19

Ways teens can find community during times of isolation

The Covid pandemic has caused a great uptick in loneliness and isolation in people of all ages. But based on lots of research and surveys during this time loneliness has risen the most in young adults. According to Harvard's research young adults are transitioning from having more connections with their inherited family to having more connections with a chosen family like a partner or friends. This transition can feel isolating alone with the added pandemic and quarantining this can be even harder for young adults. We understand that being in quarantine can feel especially isolating. Some ways you can try to connect and gain social interaction in these isolating times is using social media. Social media can be a good way to meet people near you without having to meet in person. Social media also has lots of communities to explore, these communities are a great place for people to find friends that have similar interests. Branching out through social media can be an option to feel less isolated and more connected with others during the pandemic.

Resources: https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2021/02/young-adults-teens-loneliness-mental-health-coronavirus-covid-pandemic/

@Clarezg I like you response. Short- to the point. But negative is it ended quick I wanted to read more.

@Clarezg I really enjoyed the different aspect of writing from a teen about teens. I liked the suggestions too about social media. I agree with Benitta I would like to read more lol!

@SoulfullyAButterfly

Coping with loneliness in COVID 19 with no friends:

Being close to friends is a benefit in life, but there may be times when you find yourself without any. If this is how things are right now, you can learn to cope by developing self-compassion and being more at ease being by yourself. Even though this period may be challenging, adopting a good attitude and seeking out others' support can be quite beneficial. To meet new individuals, don't be scared to put yourself out there. Keep in mind that anyone could be a buddy!

Love of oneself

Analyze your feelings of isolation.

Consider your long-term objectives.

Resources: Google

@BenittaJ

Hi, BenittaJ. It is a good thing to empower someone who is lonely to practice self-compassion and seeking support as this will help break the chain of isolation which is difficult but worth trying.

@SoulfullyAButterfly

"Navigating Solitude: Coping with Loneliness During the COVID-19 Pandemic"

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought an unforeseen surge in loneliness, as social distancing and lockdowns kept us physically apart. Coping with this pervasive isolation can be challenging, but it's crucial for our mental and emotional well-being. To combat loneliness, consider connecting virtually with loved ones through video calls or online social groups. Engage in hobbies or learn new skills to occupy your time constructively. Focusing on self-care, mindfulness, and gratitude can also ease feelings of isolation. Remember, this pandemic will eventually pass, but the coping strategies you develop today can help you emerge stronger, more resilient, and more connected.

@Wildarkberry

Sources:

https://www.nami.org/Blogs/NAMI-Blog/March-2020/Coronavirus-Mental-Health-Coping-Strategies

https://www.who.int/teams/mental-health-and-substance-use/mental-health-and-covid-19

@Wildarkberry

Hi, Wildarkberry. I love how resourceful you are in your writing. The coping strategies you offer sound practical and easy to start. Something like taking up a hobby or making a gratitude list definitely helps us connect with ourselves and our surroundings, thereby helping to alleviate loneliness.

@SoulfullyAButterfly

Coping with Loneliness During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Managing Isolation and Connecting with Others

We have all felt lonely, and in this situation when we are in quarantine, it is a completely understandable reaction. Isolation can protect others and slow down the spread of the virus.
Unfortunately, this separates us from the world and our usual lives. The good news is that we can talk to our friends and family members through social media, and it is even possible to connect via video call. Also, there are several forums available on the Internet where we can chat with people who have similar life experiences. Maybe there is more time to get to know new hobbies between the four walls. Fresh air can also help a lot by keeping an appropriate distance in public areas.

It is okay to ask for help. If you feel lonely, know that you are not alone. @7cups is a platform where you can chat with supportive listeners 24/7. Visit: https://www.7cups.com/BrowseListeners/

Sources 

https://www.mass.gov/info-details/managing-isolation-and-loneliness-during-covid-19

@helpfulmindful88

Hey there,

I really love the emphasis on positivity and the suggestions you offer. The text encourages reaching out to friends and family through various channels like social media and video calls, which is great!

Something to improve, maybe checking some of your repeated words and using a synonym instead (ex: the phrase "four walls" is used twice in a short span, varying the language makes it more engaging to read)!

@SoulfullyAButterfly

Title: Coping with Loneliness During COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified feelings of loneliness due to social distancing measures. Coping with this isolation involves adopting proactive strategies to maintain connections, prioritize self-care, and foster resilience. Here are some tips:

*Embrace virtual connections, they help you stay connected with friends and family, bridging the physical gap and combating isolation. *Establish a Routine: create a daily routine that includes activities bringing joy and fulfillment. *Pursue Personal Development: use this time for self-discovery and growth by exploring new interests. *Reach Out for Support: connect with others who may be experiencing similar challenges.

*Always be kind to yourself during lonely moments, recognizing that these feelings are natural. Practice self-compassion by acknowledging emotions without judgment.

Coping with loneliness during the pandemic involves a mix of virtual connections, routine, personal development, support, and self-compassion. By actively engaging in these strategies, individuals can navigate isolation, maintain connections, and emerge with resilience and personal growth.

@babyangel

Additionally, reply to at least one other student and highlight the strengths of their work as well as areas for improvement.

It's well-written and factual paragraph but adding quotes or insights from reliable sources would enhance its credibility as a resource.

@SoulfullyAButterfly

Using the information you just learned, write a paragraph (minimum of 100 words) for the article topic “Coping with Loneliness During the COVID-19 Pandemic” - as this is only a paragraph and NOT the complete article, state a brief heading which will inform the reader whether your paragraph is about a general introduction or something more specific. Ensure your paragraph contains facts. Please note that you are to mention your sources too, as well as a link to at least one source within the paragraph.

Coping With Loneliness During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified the already prevalent human struggle with loneliness. The Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Education for Peace and Sustainable Development underscores our inherent need for social connections, emphasizing that humans have evolved as social beings with a biological drive to form interpersonal bonds. The implementation of social distancing, while pivotal for curbing viral spread, has inadvertently escalated feelings of loneliness and isolation. Kevin Sikali's research, highlighted in a 2020 National Library of Medicine article, delineates the multifaceted dangers of social distancing, including increased social rejection, a surge in impersonality and individualism, and the potential loss of community. Cambridge University Press offers viable solutions in their 2020 publication, advocating for maintaining familial ties, leveraging technology for connection, engaging in online communities like 7Cups, and prioritizing healthy activities like yoga and mindfulness to alleviate the profound impact of isolation.

Sources:

The Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Education for Peace and Sustainable Development: https://mgiep.unesco.org/article/humans-are-social-and-emotional-beings 

Kevin Sikali in a National Library of Medicine article from 2020: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7461541/ 

Cambridge University Press from 2020: https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/international-psychogeriatrics/article/loneliness-and-social-isolation-during-the-covid19-pandemic/47ED3121405BEF3CC628A2E73E176594

@HachiBee

Strength:

1. I really liked that you have mentioned article sources title as well along with the links.

2. Your paragraph is well crafted, researched and factual.

Improvement:

1. I felt it is too formal. 

2. 7cups website link can be included for easier navigation.

@SoulfullyAButterfly

Embracing Connection: Coping with Loneliness Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic

As it's widely heard, a significant incident serves as a milestone. Such was the COVID outbreak that changed everyone's life. Worldwide, loneliness and depression rates increased simultaneously. The lack of social interaction and quarantine acted to deprive mental health. Coping mechanisms came along with necessity. It was the need of the time to increase the amount of interaction, to have support groups, sharing circles, and compassionate chats. One such platform that provides all these together at one place is the 7 cups website. It came to the rescue for those who needed it most. With the help of support that the site provided, everyone worldwide came close together, and loneliness was felt less, providing peace of mind.

Please find this link useful for COVID-19 self-help.

https://www.7cups.com/covid-19/

Source:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10218178/

https://www.icas.com/members/ca-wellbeing/wellbeing-matters/coping-with-loneliness-during-covid-19

@enigmaticpanda4152

Your reflection on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the coping mechanisms employed demonstrates a keen awareness of global challenges. Keep up the thoughtful analysis and clear expression.

@enigmaticpanda4152

While your reflection is insightful, consider expanding on specific examples or personal experiences to make your response more engaging. Best wishes my friend😊

@SoulfullyAButterfly

Understanding Loneliness in the Pandemic Era

@WeEarth It contains very good factual information good for people to know. The only thing I would have added would have been a moment of empathy or two to show the reader you are feeling it too.