In our society today, we are constantly connected to people near and far through technology and social media. Here at the hospital, we discuss improving social supports and interactions. Additionally, isolation can be a red flag. However, some interesting research indicates that some alone time may be beneficial for health and wellbeing.
Spending time on your own may:
- Make you more creative.
“Decades of research have consistently shown that brainstorming groups think of far fewer ideas than the same number of people who work alone and later pool their ideas,” Keith Sawyer, a psychologists at Washington University in St. Louis. - Make you work harder.
The concept of “social loafing” suggests that people put in less effort when others are involved in the task. - Be the key to your happiness (IF you are an introvert).
“For introverts, most social interactions take a little out of that cup instead of filling it the way it does for extroverts. Most of us like it. We’re happy to give, and love to see you. When the cup is empty though, we need some time to refuel.” Kate Bartolotta, Huff Post blogger. - Help you meet new people.
Participating in activities on your own may help you meet people with similar interests. - Help with depression (especially for teenagers).
A study found that “Adolescents.. who spent an intermediate amount of their time alone were better adjusted than those who spent little or a great deal of time along,” Reed W. Larson, emotional development expert. - Clear your mind.
“Constantly being ‘on’ doesn’t give your brain a chance to rest and replenish itself,” Sherrie Bourg Carter. - Help you do what you want to do.
Nobody else to please!
Weingus, Leigh. (2015). ‘Alone time’ is really good for you.
Brittany Best, MA
WKPIC Doctoral Intern