Isolation Healthy or Unhealthy?

In fact, there can be aspects of isolation that are healthy and there are other aspects that can be detrimental to the natural healing and growth process. After loss it is often necessary to have time to rebuild yourself because in the process of your loss you have had to redefine yourself as well. Your loss includes your own metaphorical death and as you pick up your pieces and redefine yourself, there is a need for time to be in relation with yourself once again. It is similar to after a major surgery and having time in the recovery room to allow reintegration into your present situation as well as reintegration into the world around you. This process takes time and finding yourself in this process can be difficult. Not taking the introspective time to allow acknowledgement can keep a level of denial of your loss in a place that can impede your healing. When isolation becomes a coping mechanism in order to not reintegrate into society and the world around you, there may be new problems within your life. After a loss you may feel so stripped and sensitive that interacting with society on any level can be excruciating. Each person, usually with good intent, that comes up to you is a reminder of your loss. This reality check can feel like a sledge hammer slamming down on your already shattered heart or fragile self-identity. This sensitive time is crucial for finding supports that allow you to feel safe so your mind does not start feeling you are alone and no one will understand. Slowly reaching out and finding people that allow oxygen into the “isolation bubble” will be beneficial. Feelings of insignificance, shame, guilt, or just unworthiness can start to diminish and allow you to start the healing process. Like a bear after hibernation, there comes a time to step back out into the world and integrate with your surroundings to start rebuilding your strength and stamina to allow healing and growth within your life.