Isolation or Solitude: Exploring the Difference

 

Do you often find yourself somewhere all by yourself? Better question, do you like to be alone? For many, loneliness can be seen as a negative thing. It can be a sign of depression, anxiety, a lack of self-confidence, and other undesirable traits. However, for some, being alone can be blissful. It can be peaceful, help you focus, and bring out the best in you. What is the difference between being alone and feeling alone?

Being alone isn’t necessarily a bad thing. It all depends on the circumstances of why that person is alone at that given time. I enjoy my alone time. It allows me to be creative, enjoy a good story, and recharge my social battery, as well as self-reflect and understand myself better. If that is the case for you then I would label that as being in solitude.

Others, on the other hand, may want to be alone for reasons that aren’t so great. Those constantly sitting at home binge-watching TV shows or playing video games to escape and avoid relationships, are likelier to be feeling alone. These individuals are more than likely in isolation.

Loneliness is the poverty of self; solitude is the richness of self.

That’s not a jab at those who enjoy watching their favorite shows and playing video games. There is nothing wrong with either of those activities. However, if spending time in front of a screen is all you do in your spare time, and you’d rather do that than spend time with good friends, or explore the outdoors, there may be an underlying issue.

Isolation kills! Separating yourself from social activity for a prolonged period can create huge health risks. Not only can isolation cause and add to the mental health conditions mentioned earlier, but it can also have physical consequences. According to the CDC, loneliness and social isolation can also lead to chronic diseases like heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and even early death. Being alone for too long can affect your mind and body.

Isolation may initially feel comfortable and secure, but after days, weeks, or even months without contact, it can make a person feel less like a fully functioning human being. This can add to the self-loathing and depression you may already be feeling.

Humans are naturally social creatures; we need physical contact to live healthy lives. Being disconnected from any human contact for an extended period goes against our nature. It may seem better at first, but we are just creating a habit that will negatively affect us in the long run.

The worst cruelty that can be inflicted on a human being is isolation.

 

Solitude vivifies! Sometimes you need some good alone time. The distinction between solitude and isolation lies in the intended purpose of being alone. Taking a walk along the beach, sitting by the water to read a book, or lounging in the backyard while listening to music are excellent ways to enjoy some solitude. Solitude is to bring life to you while being alone.

Solitude can help clear the mind and even do the body some good. Spending some hours alone can help calm people and reduce feelings of stress which as a result can have long-term benefits for your mental and physical health.

As an introvert, I always enjoy taking a few hours, or even a couple of days, for myself. I dive into a few of my many hobbies and take time to self-reflect on past events, or simply enjoy being lost in another world inside my head. It’s a peaceful experience that helps rejuvenate my energy and maintain my emotions at times. The important thing about being in solitude is that even though I am typically alone, I never feel lonely.

In solitude the mind gains strength and learns to lean upon itself.

So what’s the difference between isolation and solitude? One kills while one brings life. Both are states in which you are alone and are avoiding social interaction, but one is to hide while one is to self-reflect or recharge. It can be easy to confuse the two at times, but the best way to spot the difference is to ask yourself, do you genuinely enjoy your time alone, and how are you truly benefiting from this social separation? Do you like being alone, or do you just feel lonely?