In an increasingly fast-paced, aspirational, and often materialistic world, mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and suicide are becoming alarmingly common. Personal relationships and feelings of social connection play a critical role in safeguarding against these issues, particularly as social isolation and loneliness continue to rise.
Dr Shyam Bhat, a psychiatrist and the chairperson, LiveLoveLaugh, emphasizes the profound protective effect that personal relationships have against mental health struggles. According to Dr Bhat, “Personal relationships and a feeling of social connection are profoundly protective against depression, anxiety, and the risk of suicide.” Research supports this view, showing that individuals experiencing loneliness have a fivefold increase in their risk of suicide compared to those who feel sufficiently connected.
Dr Upasana Chaddha Vij, a psychologist, Mindscape, concurs with the view that personal relationships play a crucial role in overall well-being. She explains, “Having supportive, positive relationships is known to help you thrive, make you happy, and establish a feeling of connection.” Positive relationships create a safe space where individuals can express themselves without fear of judgment. “A positive relationship where you can speak your heart out can act as a protective factor to many mental health issues,” Dr. Vij says.
The global rise in suicide rates, Dr. Bhat explains, can be partially attributed to increasing social isolation. This isolation is exacerbated by the pressures of modern life, where individuals are overworked, stressed, and often left with little energy to invest in nurturing meaningful interpersonal relationships. In this context, the quick fix of pseudo-connections through social media and endless streams of entertainment only deepens the feelings of loneliness and disconnection. Dr. Bhat notes, “Unfortunately, time spent on these platforms usually further deepens the feeling of isolation and loneliness.”
For individuals in collectivist societies, like India, the effects of isolation can be even more pronounced. “We Indians, in particular, are prone to the harmful effects of isolation because we belong to a collectivist society, where identities are derived from a sense of community,” Dr Bhat explains. Studies suggest that collectivist societies may have a genetic predisposition to increased risks of depression and anxiety. “Someone could conclude that collective societies like ours have an increased risk of suffering from depression as a consequence of social isolation compared with Western societies,” he adds.
However, it’s not just about the quantity of relationships. As Dr. Bhat points out, “While loneliness is a risk factor, it has to be noted that it’s not the number of relationships but the quality that correlates with better mental and physical health.” Relationships characterized by chronic emotional conflict or dissatisfaction can also elevate the risk of mental health issues.
While positive relationships can certainly be beneficial, Dr. Vij stresses that they are not a substitute for professional treatment when it comes to severe mental health challenges like suicidal ideation. “Suicidal tendencies usually stem from underlying mental disorders that need medical attention first,” she explains. While supportive relationships can aid recovery, medical intervention is essential. “Think about it like this: if someone broke their hand, getting a cast is the most important treatment. Having social support accentuates your healing, but it does not replace a cast that you essentially need.”
Both experts agree that addressing the epidemic of loneliness and social isolation requires action at both the individual and societal levels. “Individuals must recognize the need and create time and space for good interpersonal relationships and non-transactional relationships,” Dr. Bhat advises. On a larger scale, society needs to preserve and nurture social ties, even as it advances in success and development.
Dr. Vij echoes this sentiment, reminding us that if someone is expressing suicidal thoughts, it is critical to provide support and direct them to medical help. “Speak to people about what they feel. Do not dismiss their ideas or try to tell them that they are cowardly or ungrateful. Suicidal ideation is a result of mental health illness, which needs medical and psychological treatment,” she says.
Ultimately, fostering strong, healthy relationships and recognizing the importance of professional mental health care are both essential in combating the rising rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide. Whether through personal connections or societal change, tackling loneliness is a crucial step in improving mental well-being.
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