Social Isolation and Loneliness During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Impact on Weight.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Social isolation and loneliness have long been identified as risk factors for poorer physical and mental health and increased mortality. These factors have also been shown to impact dietary behavior and physical activity which play a role in precipitating and maintaining obesity. Less is known about the impact of social isolation resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic in which social distancing is a major component of public health initiatives. This narrative review will examine the existing literature on the relationships between social isolation, loneliness, mental health, and weight as they relate to the COVID-19 pandemic. RECENT FINDINGS: Individuals with obesity are at very high risk for worsening course of COVID-19, hospitalization, and death. This population may also be more significantly impacted by the dietary and physical activity consequences resulting from lockdown, social distancing, and isolation. The pandemic has led to significant lifestyle disruptions. However, early studies have largely relied upon cross-sectional studies or convenience samples. Future research will need to study the impact more rigorously, particularly among populations at greatest risk.

The COVID-19 Crisis: A Mental Health Perspective and Response Using Telemedicine.

With the outbreak of COVID-19, patients and providers were forced to isolate and become innovative in ways to continue exceptional patient care. The Cleveland Clinic went from mostly in-person medical appointments to all virtual/telemedicine care in about 2 weeks' time. In this piece, we show specifically the thought process and our conversion of the Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis Behavioral Medicine to ensure that our patients still receive exceptional care and patient experience. Additionally, we discuss the importance of innovating the training and supervision of postdoctoral trainees using telepsychology and virtual options.