She Strengthens

Finding Solace in the Unlikeliest of Places

As I navigated the unfamiliar streets of New York City, thousands of miles away from family and friends, loneliness began to creep in. It wasn’t until I stumbled upon a small potted evergreen tree on a Christmas stand that I felt a glimmer of hope. This tiny tree, wrapped in an old burgundy scarf, brought a sense of vibrancy to my apartment and helped me feel less alone.

The Pandemic’s Isolation

Fast forward to today, and the pandemic has exacerbated feelings of loneliness and isolation. With many of us working from home, distant from loved ones, and approaching even essential outings with caution, it’s no wonder that psychological distress and loneliness have reached elevated levels. Studies have shown that nearly 25% of people are experiencing symptoms of depression, a rate higher than that of previous large-scale trauma events.

The Power of Plants

But amidst this uncertainty, there is a glimmer of hope. Plants, it turns out, have a profound impact on our mental and emotional well-being. They produce oxygen, have medicinal properties, and are even edible. Research has shown that plants can improve concentration and productivity, promote healing, and have a calming effect on us.

Indoor Plants: A Solution to Loneliness?

So, do indoor plants ease loneliness? According to Amanda Stemen, a licensed therapist and social worker, the answer is a resounding “yes.” “When we spend time around plants, we feel more deeply connected to ourselves, others, and something greater, which is necessary to combat loneliness.” In fact, some doctors are even prescribing potted plants to people to help them cope with anxiety, loneliness, and depression.

The Intimacy of Plant Care

Pol Bishop, a horticulturist and gardener, agrees. “I’ve been working closely with plants for over 15 years, and I can assure you that they do make us feel less lonely.” The act of caring for a plant requires an intimate understanding of its needs, fostering a deep connection between the plant and its caregiver. This connection can lead to feelings of pleasure, happiness, and love, thanks to the release of hormones like dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin.

A Healthy Distraction

Caring for plants offers a healthy distraction from the uncertainty and stress of the pandemic. By focusing on the needs of our plants, we can momentarily forget about our own worries and feel a sense of purpose. As Saba Harouni Lurie, a licensed marriage and family therapist, puts it, “Our plants are living beings, and caring for them involves being attentive and kind to them and meeting their needs.”

A Small but Significant Help

While there is no magic cure for loneliness, caring for a plant might just make you feel a little less alone. And sometimes, that’s all we need to get through the tough times.