Fourth-year student doctor Ikaneng Yingwane offers an analysis of social isolation during medical studies, and toll it takes on mental health.

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Social isolation, characterised by poor connections and a lack of meaningful social interactions, is quite common among students. It’s a phenomenon that has great consequences for student’s mental health, academic performance, and overall well-being. It would take understanding the causes, impacts and potential solutions to social isolation for one to get to experience a supportive environment at a tertiary institution.

Multiple factors contribute to social isolation among students. The rise of technology, while offering a multitude of benefits, has also led to a decrease in face-to-face interactions. Social media, albeit designed to connect people, can ironically lead to feeling of isolation and loneliness. Students often compare their lives to the seemingly perfect lives of others, leading to feelings and social withdrawal. On the surface level, the comparison seems menial and pointless; however, on a deeper level it is believed to evoke the spirit while it inadvertently leads to crippling and need to achieve perfection in the same way that it perceived on the socials.

The impacts of social isolation on students are multifaceted and profound. One of the most significant impacts is on mental health. Loneliness and isolation can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental problems. Feelings of isolation may be associated with experiences of low self-esteem and a lack of motivation, which can exacerbate mental health problems. Additionally, academic performance can be impacted by social isolation. When isolated, I think students may have difficulty staying motivated and focused on their studies and are less likely to seek assistance. On the contrary, students that are connected and engaged tend to thrive academically, as they are more likely to participate in class discussions and seek help when they have hit a stumbling block in their academics. Moreover, social isolation can potentially affect one’s physical health, due to lack of exercise, poor diet and potential substance abuse. Stress and anxiety associated with loneliness can weaken the immune system making one prone to illnesses.

Potential solutions at quelling social isolation among students requires a collaborative effort. The institution plays a major role in creating an inclusive and supportive environment. Encouraging group activity, collaborative projects, and per mentoring programs can help foster social connections. Additionally, for those that consider themselves socially “awkward,” they can look for outlets that align with their interests, so that they have themselves a community in which they will not feel like outcasts. Moreover, having access to psychological assistance could assist in them discovering the root cause of their isolation. There could be programs implemented where students can learn how to ration their time in order to preserve their social battery.

Social isolation among students is a complex issue with significant implications for academic, mental health and overall well-being. The rise of digital technology and the prevalence of social media has exacerbated feelings of loneliness and isolation among students. Addressing this phenomenon requires a variety of approaches to create a supportive and inclusive environment. By fostering social connections, providing a space for discussion such as small group tutorials and providing mental health resources, which can help students overcome the issues of social isolation, and thrive both academically and socially.

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