Social interaction is gradually declining, perhaps even among family members, due to the overwhelming influence of communication and social media, the growing capabilities of smartphones, the dominance of materialistic lifestyles, the weakening bonds of kinship and friendship, and the diminishing trust in others. Additional factors vary from one society to another, often tied to political, security, and economic circumstances.
Over recent decades, there has been a noticeable decrease in the number of people who report having a close confidant in their lives. Furthermore, the time individuals spend with family, friends, colleagues, and neighbors has dropped from 15 hours to just 10 hours a week, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau.
A medical study indicates that individuals suffering from social isolation are more prone to illnesses, particularly heart disease and stroke. Their ability to accomplish daily tasks diminishes, and their efficiency in professional and family roles declines. These negative feelings reflect on their performance as employees, spouses, and parents.
American writer Jessica Stillman states that the lack of human interaction has the same significant impact on energy levels as a lack of food, emphasizing the importance of the spiritual and emotional nourishment provided by social connections with others.
Here are five practical steps to overcome social isolation:
1. Choose Good Friends
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of selecting good companions and likened them to a perfume seller. He said: "The example of a good pious companion and an evil one is that of a person carrying musk and another blowing a pair of bellows. The one who is carrying musk will either give you some perfume as a present, or you will buy some from him, or you will get a good smell from him, but the one who is blowing a pair of bellows will either burn your clothes or you will get a bad smell from him.” (Al-Bukhari)
This Hadith highlights the uplifting impact of a good friend, who can bring joy and help dispel feelings of frustration, depression, and isolation.
2. Strengthen Family Ties
Maintaining family connections is a sign of faith. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "He who believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him be hospitable to his guest; and he who believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him maintain good the ties of blood relationship; and he who believes in Allah and the Last Day, must speak good or remain silent.” (Al-Bukhari)
He also said: "Whoever would like his lifespan to be extended, his provision to be increased and a bad death to be warded off from him, let him fear Allah and uphold his ties of kinship.” (Al-Bazzar and Al-Hakim)
These Hadiths emphasize the benefits of family ties, including improved health, longer life, increased blessings in sustenance, and safety from harm. Those who maintain family relationships often enjoy better psychological well-being and positive social connections.
3. Engage in Physical Activity
A medical study found that socially isolated individuals tend to exercise less and often have poor sleep habits, increasing their risk of stroke by 32% and heart disease by 29%. Isolation is also linked to a higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease, with its effects comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes daily.
To combat isolation, engage in physical activities such as walking outdoors, cycling, swimming, or playing football. These activities not only improve health but also provide opportunities for social interaction and new connections.
4. Limit Time on Social Media
Social media platforms, sometimes referred to as "disconnecting sites," have reduced friendships and family relationships to mere likes, shares, and virtual interactions, lacking genuine personal contact. For example, offering condolences on Facebook has replaced physically consoling the bereaved.
To restore meaningful relationships, minimize excessive online engagement and prioritize traditional methods like visits and phone calls. True social bonds are not measured by the number of followers or subscribers but by the quality of interactions and relationships.
5. Help Others and Volunteer
Be quick to offer assistance to others, engage in voluntary or charitable work, distribute charity and Zakat, bring joy to fellow Muslims, or alleviate someone's distress. You could provide free medical or educational services, reconcile disputes, or participate in other social activities that yield positive outcomes and great rewards.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "If anyone relieves a Muslim believer from one of the hardships of this worldly life, Allah will relieve him of one of the hardships of the Day of Resurrection. If anyone makes it easy for the one who is indebted to him (while finding it difficult to repay), Allah will make it easy for him in this worldly life and in the Hereafter.” (Muslim)
Such acts of kindness bring happiness to people's hearts and simultaneously free you from feelings of frustration and isolation
-------------------------------------------------------------
Read this Article in Arabic
