Isolation, a state with significant physical and mental health implications, is a multifaceted phenomenon. We use the term "self-isolation behavior", extending its COVID-19 context from temporary quarantine to long-term voluntary withdrawal, defined as spending time alone with limited interaction and restricted outings. This study aimed to classify self-isolation patterns among employees, examine subgroup differences by mental health, and recognize self-isolation as a valid lifestyle choice. A cross-sectional online survey of employees aged 20–60 was conducted (n=500), ethics approved by the University of Tsukuba and supported by JST SPRING, measured self-isolation, psychosocial work environment, family resilience, mental health (K6), and socio-demographics. Cluster analysis used K-means; group differences were assessed with Mann–Whitney U and Kruskal–Wallis tests. Using 13 features measured by single items assessing the frequency of outings during non-working hours, interactions with family/friends, and time spent alone, four clusters were identified: “composite isolated”, "physical isolated", "social isolated", and "non-isolated". The "composite" group had more with psychological distress; the "non-isolated" group had more without, suggesting a partial association with mental health. In "physical" and "social" groups, mental health distribution was similar. Stratifying by mental health revealed that, among those with distress, the "physical" group had higher emotional support, workplace social capital, and family connectedness than the “composite” group; among those without distress, "social" and "physical" groups had lower support and resources than the “non-isolated” group. Self-isolation behavior reflects opportunities to improve workplace/family support, varying by type, and may serve as an early indicator to promote mental well-being.　

Authors:
Yichunzi Li, University of Tsukuba, Japan
Yasukazu Ogai, University of Tsukuba, Japan
Nobuaki Morita, University of Tsukuba, Japan

About the Presenter(s)
Ms. Yichunzi Li is currently a second-year Ph.D. student in the Department of Social Psychiatry and Mental Health at the University of Tsukuba, Japan.

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