Third spaces

Third spaces have largely disappeared. Whether that was church, clubs, associations or some other group, people are more keeping to themselves than ever and foregoing social structures that used to feed the social fabric. 

Technology is of course largely responsible and as more things were done online, it became easier to push a button than physically interact. Even the process of finding a life partner became about swiping left or right. 

At first this seemed to simplify our lives but over time the psychological impacts began to be felt. Anxiety and depression rates increased as people felt the effects of isolation which were greatly magnified during the pandemic. One of the largest studies ever conducted on happiness showed that health and friendships are the only important contributors to wellness once out basic needs of food and lodging are met. More money does absolutely nothing.

As a retired person who mostly lives alone (my 26 year old daughter constantly comes and goes) I work on making human contact through friendships, acquaintances and talking to strangers. It helps feed that primordial need we all have for connection. 

To reverse our current problems we will need to rebuild social networks which involve face to face interaction or continue to face the consequences.