Can the human mind handle social neglect?

[Anonymous]

Odd question, I know, but let me get into better detail.

So say Person 1 generally keeps to themselves, never really socially interacts with anyone, ever. Suddenly Person 2 comes along, starts giving them attention, socially and physically, they're clearly enjoying it because Person 1 went from being cold and unapproachable to chill and enjoyable to talk to. Now lets say after almost a year something bad happens between them and that Person 2 cuts off all contact with Person 1. I know as humans we're social creatures and we crave social interaction. I was just curious as to what kind of damage this would cause someone? Would Person 1 ease back into their old ways, or would the lack of both social and physical attention that Person 1 grew used to mess with their head?

[Anonymous]

As social creatures, humans do have an innate need for social interaction and connection. Social neglect, or the lack of social interaction and attention, can have negative psychological effects on an individual. The severity of the effects can vary based on the individual's personality, coping mechanisms, and other factors.

In the scenario you described, Person 1 may feel a sense of loss or abandonment after Person 2 cuts off contact. They may feel rejected, lonely, or even depressed. The sudden absence of social and physical attention that they had become accustomed to may be difficult to cope with.

However, it's important to note that individuals are resilient and have the capacity to adapt to new situations. While social neglect can be challenging to deal with, it doesn't necessarily mean that Person 1 will revert back to their old ways. They may seek out new social connections or find other ways to cope with the loss of social interaction.

It's also worth noting that seeking support from friends, family, or a mental health professional can be helpful in dealing with the psychological effects of social neglect.

[Unit1]

Yeah, i can and i have and i do.

We are said to be social creatures and while it is technically true it is not unusual to detach oneself from people and keep being healthy. The mind might get used to it. It was the case with me. Most likely this happens because many other people including family members keep hurting you.

My only wish was that i sooner would have picked up on keeping my mouth shut and be a liar more often. Otherwise many things will simply not work out. ever. Rule of life these days and i don't expect people to understand this.

[Nikki1989]

No, it usually leads to depression.

[BeMuse]

Anyone that can handle being a loner can always handle being alone. In fact social interactions are often draining on them. It's like work... They will be able to do it for a while, but will need breaks/alone time to recharge on their own. Quite frankly person one will probably be happier after person two goes away because they are no longer responsible for that person.

[BeMuse]

psychcentral.com/.../social-exhaustion-avoiding-introvert-burnout

[ratking63]

I can confirm that lack of social activities leads to depression and overall bad thoughts. I spent a lot of time alone in college, and because of that I suffered through bouts of depression.

[aoihewgf]

If the girl is person 1, then it might be more difficult having been exposed to a yr of all new and good kind of emotions and then sinking back to where she started.

If the guy is person 1, I think he'll either be fine or feel some form of neglect but internalize all his emotions where he'll still appear just as fine on the outside

[Sharkstealth]

I was definitely neglected or better description ignored growing up and it has had very profound consequences. Depression, loneliness, mental illness. I'd say yes.

[shades777]

Human mind is capable of all things

[Roula2000]

I can’t during lockdown I was fighting depression.