We all need a little downtime, me time, time to unwind and repair from the wear and tear of the day. But if you, like many people, are finding yourself repeating a pattern of declining invitations, dreading looming social plans, or feeling relieved when planned get-togethers fall apart, it might be time to take steps to break the cycle of avoidance and safety behaviors that are keeping you stuck, isolated, and alone.

We are social animals, hard-wired to connect with others. We thrive through our relationships with others, and a robust social network is a strong predictor of long-term health; in the absence of such connections, we suffer short- and long-term consequences, both physical and mental.

What’s the problem?

Though it may feel safe, social isolation is not good for us. What exactly is the problem? Plenty, according to Tyler J. VanderWeele, Ph.D., of the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and also a Psychology Today contributor. He has noted that loneliness, for decades, has increased, and social engagement has decreased.

Furthermore, during an announcement of the establishment of a commission to foster greater social connections globally, World........

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