Very Biggest Questions: What Is Social Isolation Doing to Our Brains?

In these unprecedented times, our brains are dealing with a unique blend of social isolation, existential panic and an uncertainty about the road ahead.

The threat of infection can cause new daily anxieties and phobias, leading us to see our neighbors, family members and partners as potential carriers. We’ve also drastically altered the way we work, parent and enjoy leisure time; all of which have required us to create new daily routines and processes. For some, it’s been a devastating time of loneliness and grief; others have found themselves more productive, even thriving. Some psychological effects exacerbate the distance between socioeconomic groups — while the wealthy may be practicing mindfulness, our essential workers face a more immediate threat on the frontlines.

How can we support people living alone during this time? What lasting effects will this have on babies and children who spent this formative time inside and with minimal social interaction? Why is it exhausting to be on Zoom all day? How can we find more patience for our loved ones? And what tools can we use to find a sense of hope and renewal despite the bleak circumstances?

Watch our live video stream as host Angélique Roché is joined by a panel of psychologists, neurologists and others to discuss the physical and mental effects of the COVID-19 epidemic and its resulting isolation.











When: Thu., Jun. 11, 2020 at 7:00 pm
Where: The Greene Space
44 Charlton St.
646-829-4000
Price: Free
Buy tickets/get more info now
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In these unprecedented times, our brains are dealing with a unique blend of social isolation, existential panic and an uncertainty about the road ahead.

The threat of infection can cause new daily anxieties and phobias, leading us to see our neighbors, family members and partners as potential carriers. We’ve also drastically altered the way we work, parent and enjoy leisure time; all of which have required us to create new daily routines and processes. For some, it’s been a devastating time of loneliness and grief; others have found themselves more productive, even thriving. Some psychological effects exacerbate the distance between socioeconomic groups — while the wealthy may be practicing mindfulness, our essential workers face a more immediate threat on the frontlines.

How can we support people living alone during this time? What lasting effects will this have on babies and children who spent this formative time inside and with minimal social interaction? Why is it exhausting to be on Zoom all day? How can we find more patience for our loved ones? And what tools can we use to find a sense of hope and renewal despite the bleak circumstances?

Watch our live video stream as host Angélique Roché is joined by a panel of psychologists, neurologists and others to discuss the physical and mental effects of the COVID-19 epidemic and its resulting isolation.

Buy tickets/get more info now