The strength of the wolf comes from the pack. The pack hunts together, raises pups together and defends its territory together. Each individual within a pack plays an important role and contributes to the survival of the group.
The pack in turn plays a crucial role in the way an ecosystem functions. Without their influence, the ecosystem changes completely and some biodiversity is lost.
Being a lone wolf is not as glamorous as it sounds. A lone wolf cannot hunt large animals and is less likely to reproduce, thrive and survive.
There is strength in numbers. There is safety in numbers.
We all need a pack, a tribe, a clan. A group of people we can depend on. A community that will help us succeed and provide safety in times of need.
According to Statistics Canada, the impact of social isolation and loneliness on health and well-being is recognized globally as a public health issue. Currently, many Canadians are experiencing social isolation as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic—seniors in particular.[1]
In 2008/09, the latest year for which information is available, 12% of Canadians over the age of 65 felt isolated and 24% reported low participation in their community with interactions occurring less than once a week. Low participation in turn increases the risk of poor health and mortality.
This highlights the importance of seniors returning to their activities and social interactions after the pandemic to avoid long-term social isolation.
Loneliness does not only affect seniors. People in all demographics are affected.
Isolation increases the rates of depression, anxiety, irritability and leads to cognitive decline. Isolation also increases blood pressure, heart disease, obesity and reduces our ability to fight infections.[2]
You can take simple steps to reduce loneliness and prevent isolation.
These include:
Stay physically active and include group exercise in the mix, like joining a walking club.
Take a class to learn something new and, at the same time, expand your circle of friends.
Revisit an old hobby you’ve set aside and connect with others who share your interests
Volunteer to deepen your sense of purpose and help others.
Nurture and strengthen existing relationships; invite people over or call them to suggest activities.
Schedule a time each day to call a friend or visit someone.
Meet your neighbors—young and old.
Make connections, support each other and grow your community.
When the snow falls and the white winds blow, the lone wolf dies but the pack survives
Selected references
[1] Stat Can. Health Reports: Social isolation and mortality among Canadian seniors. The Daily. Released: 2020-06-17. https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/daily-quotidien/200617/dq200617d-eng.htm
[2] Masi CM, Chen HY, Hawkley LC, et al. A meta-analysis of interventions to reduce loneliness. Pers Soc Psychol Rev. 2011; 15(3):219-266. doi: 10.1177/1088868310377394.