Recognizing the Roots of Social Isolation In 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General released a report Our Epidemic of called Loneliness and Isolation. It explained how being lonely or isolated can increase the risk of serious health issues like heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and even suicide. n n n n n Tree Removal Mowing Trimming Mulching Weeding n n n n n Edging Seasonal Cleanup Planting & Seeding Garden Design Stump Removal n n n n n Fence Repair Sod Installation Drain Installation Brush Removal Snow Removal Don’t see what you need in this list? PLEASE ASK US! We provide many additional professional services. CONTACT US FOR A FREE ESTIMATE Limitlesslandscaping.com | LICENSED AND INSURED 540.222.1196 | info@LimitlessLandscaping.com But what’s behind this growing loneliness in America? Some say it’s due to changes in how our communities are built or how much we rely on technology. These are important factors, but they don’t fully explain why so many people feel unmotivated to connect with others. A deeper reason may be fear of intimacy. Fear of intimacy means feeling uncomfortable forming close emotional or physical relationships. This fear can come from many places—past trauma, low self-esteem, or fear of rejection. Sometimes, people don’t even realize they have this fear. A sign to watch for is wanting close relationships but holding yourself back from being vulnerable or opening up. So how do you move past this fear? The first step is to look at what you believe about relationships. Our beliefs shape how we act— and often lead to outcomes we expect, a concept called the self-fulfilling prophecy. If you expect to be rejected, for example, you might avoid connection altogether, which reinforces that belief. Changing these beliefs can be hard—especially if you’ve experienced trauma, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re not sure where to start, consider reaching out for support. The Mental Health Association of Fauquier County has a directory of local providers on their website: fauquier-mha.org/ resources-to-download. If you have Medicaid or no insurance, Encompass Community Supports offers services at two locations: the Fauquier Behavioral Health Clinic in Warrenton: (540) 347-7620 and the Culpeper Behavioral Health Clinic in Culpeper: (540) 825-5656. A mental health professional can help you explore your beliefs about relationships and support you in building healthier ones. It takes courage to face old wounds and try again—but healing is possible. Here’s wishing for a time of hope and change—for you or someone you care about. CALL FOR WATER HEATER SERVICE OR REPLACEMENT! a Hot Bath OVER 35 YEARS EXPERIENCE! FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED 10% OFF ANY SERVICE (Up To $50.00) Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM CHUCK MULLINS PLUMBING Now Through 7/15/25 with this ad Call today! 540-937-4501 Cell: 540-229-1933 26 Discover Fauquier ■ June/July 2025 To advertise: By Chris Eaglin, QMHP-A Community Outreach Specialist Encompass Community Supports 540-349-8060 www.discoverypubs.com