Loneliness as a Condition of Ableism.

Loneliness and its history are being studied at an increasing rate (Cooper, et al., 2024). For disabled communities, however, abandonment and loneliness are far from newfound phenomena (HistoricEngland.org.UK, N.D.). Functioning, particularly in economic and social realms, has long been a predictor of worthiness and humanity (Teles da Silva, et al., 2025). This lens, Western in dominance, leaves disabled people behind, as ableism is passed down to future generations.

These facts beg some critical questions, as we live through multiple public health crises (World Health Organization, 2026). What will happen to those who have already been, and inevitably will be, disabled by these illnesses? If history is to be our measure, the systems created to ‘care’ for disabled people will continue to fall short, abandon, and fail us.

Loneliness as Punishment for Conviction.

Deliberate isolation of incarcerated persons has a long and painful history, with the first glimpses of the modern U.S. carceral system starting in early 1800s on Lenapehoking land [A.K.A Philadelphia, PA] (BridgeLegal.org, 2025). Not only does punishment-driven isolation increase symptoms of mental dysregulation and distress, but also the occurrence of physical illness and disability (White, 2023). If disability becomes a product of punishment, but disability itself is punished in greater society, where does the vicious cycle end?

Loneliness as a Retreat from Harm.

Despite the evidence above, many of us also choose or have to be alone, for great swaths of time. The systems meant to ‘help and heal’ often end up isolating and re-injuring. Retreats away from systems of harm may become necessary to mitigate further instances of systemic violence, while processing others. For example, after experiencing medical gaslighting, patients may choose to stop seeking medical care altogether (Faytong-Haro, 2025). After all, most of us cannot afford adequate healthcare in the U.S. (Schultheis, 2025), even when it does lead to positive experiences or adequate medical care.

How do We Advocate for Less Forced Isolation & Greater Resourcing?

One great place to start advocating for greater community connection is to get and know your own neighbors and community! Even if it is difficult for you to leave your neighborhood or home, you can pay mindful attention to the patterns of the neighbors immediately surrounding you. Haven’t heard the person next door start up their car in a while? Did your upstairs neighbor suddenly miss the morning news, even though you can always hear it? It may be time to give a friendly knock, check-in, and/or introduction!

Another way to broaden your advocacy would be to volunteer your time, goods, or services. There are a great number of ways to volunteer virtually or in-person, which directly connect you to someone experiencing isolation. You might find fulfillment in writing or sending mail to incarcerated adults near you, donating to and serving patrons through your local food bank, or by starting/utilizing a local little library to share knowledge.

Lastly, respecting others’ need for time alone can be a powerful practice in advocacy against forced isolation and isolation as punishment. Understanding the wounds of systemic violence, promoting harm reduction, and demystifying disability are all components of a less punished world.

How are you challenging the harm that isolation has done to your communities? Do you notice yourself punishing yourself/others for isolating? Where might this impulse come from?

If you find yourself wanting a structured space to explore these questions and more, start your *FREE* Life Coaching journey today by emailing [email protected]!