The brain in isolationThe brain in isolation
All In The Mind
Over the past few weeks many of us have been living more isolated lives than we’re used to. We might not be in government-mandated quarantine but there’s no doubt that COVID-19 has upended our social lives. Yet isolation can be deeply troubling for humans because we’re social animals; and that’s just as true in our current circumstances as it is in very extreme forms of isolation.
25:02•3 May 2020
The Brain on Lockdown: Isolation, Loneliness and Inner Life
Episode Overview
- Human brains rely heavily on social interaction, so prolonged isolation can shrink synaptic connections and raise the risk of mental health problems.
- Covid-19 distancing may trigger a “mental health curve” if it lasts beyond a few months, affecting suicide rates, domestic violence and social stability.
- Extreme isolation such as solitary confinement can lead to hallucinations, delirium and long-term post-traumatic effects, especially when used as punishment.
- A sense of belonging to a group or community can protect against personal loneliness and reduce some of the physical health risks linked to isolation.
- Temperament and a rich inner life can make being alone easier, and practices like mindfulness or self-sufficiency can be learnt to cope better with limited contact.
“Everything about us, but particularly our nervous system, our brain, depends on social interaction.”
Curious about how others cope when contact with the outside world suddenly shrinks to a screen and four walls? This episode of All In The Mind looks at isolation from several angles, blending science, story and a touch of dark humour. You’ll first meet Hugo, stuck in hotel quarantine in Sydney after leaving New York. His days swing between “periods of euphoria and periods of pretty serious frustration,” and even a bad ricotta ravioli becomes a “quarantine eight”.
He talks about anxiety spiking with constant online work demands, and how books, work, and a busy inner world help him stay steady when the door stays shut.
From there, psychiatrist Professor Ian Hickey explains why humans are so rattled by separation: “Everything about us, but particularly our nervous system, our brain, depends on social interaction.” He outlines how reduced social contact can shrink synaptic connections and increase risk for mental health issues if distancing drags on, and why losing physical presence, facial cues and group life hits so hard. The episode then shifts to extreme isolation.
Robert King, who spent 29 years in solitary confinement, is quoted saying, “I did not tell you I was sane… It’s impossible to get dipped in waste and not come up stinking.” Dr Stephanie Cassioppo adds brain science to his story, explaining how the mind drops unused functions in isolation, yet can recover once contact returns.
Balance comes from park ranger Paul Udinga, who describes long stretches of remote work in Western Australia as peaceful and satisfying, especially with his family nearby and nature all around. Personality and choice, he suggests, make all the difference. Throughout, the show speaks to anyone feeling the strain of Covid-era distancing, offering both warning signs and practical hope: a reminder to value connection, build an inner life, and think about what kind of contact really keeps your brain well.
How might you strengthen both your relationships and your inner world for the long haul?
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