Human social isolation and stress: a systematic review of different contexts and recommendations for future studies
Trends psychiatry psychother. (Impr.)
; 46: e20210452, 2024. tab, graf
Article
in English
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LILACS-Express
| LILACS
| ID: biblio-1551088
Responsible library:
BR1.1
ABSTRACT
Abstract Objectives The emergence of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and subsequent lockdowns and social distancing measures adopted worldwide raised questions about the possible health effects of human social isolation. Methods We conducted a systematic review on PubMed, Scopus, and Embase electronic databases using terms related to human social isolation - defined as the isolation of an individual from regular routines and usual social contact - and psychological stress, searching for simulated or naturalistic isolation environments. We present the main results, as well as the validity and limitations of each model. PROSPERO registry number CRD42021241880. Results Despite the diversity of contexts reviewed, some outcomes almost ubiquitously relate to psychological stress, i.e., longer periods, expectation of a longer period, confinement, lack of social interaction, and support. Based on the results, and considering that most studies were not designed for the purpose of understanding isolation itself, we propose a group of recommendations for future experimental or naturalistic research on the topic. Conclusion Evidence on the impact of different situations in which individuals are subjected to social isolation can assist in development of directed preventive strategies to support people under similar circumstances. Such strategies might increase the general public's compliance with social distancing as a non-pharmacological intervention for emerging infectious diseases.
Full text:
Available
Collection:
International databases
Database:
LILACS
Language:
English
Journal:
Trends psychiatry psychother. (Impr.)
Journal subject:
Psychiatry
Year:
2024
Document type:
Article
/
Project document
Affiliation country:
Brazil
Institution/Affiliation country:
UFRGS/BR
/
UNIFESP/BR