The Science of Social Isolation: How Our Environments Shape Connection, Wellbeing, and Belonging

What if the key to belonging wasn’t hidden deep within our DNA, but right in front of us, in the spaces we create, the way we play, and the environments we design?

In a recent conversation I had with Dr Val Rytova, behavioural neuroscientist and expert in human behaviour, we unpacked the science of social isolation, neurodivergence, and the extraordinary power of environment to shape our lives. What we discovered could transform how we think about inclusion, connection, and human potential.

Brains Are Wired for Connection, But Environment Decides the Outcome

Dr Val explained that while we inherit our DNA from our parents, it’s not the genetic code alone that determines who we become. In fact, up to 90% of gene expression is influenced by environment. This field of study, called epigenetics, shows that while our DNA is fixed, the way it’s expressed can be “switched on or off” depending on the environment we live in.

It’s an incredible truth, the spaces and systems we create directly impact how our genes are expressed, how our brains function, and how we behave. We often focus on “fixing” the person, but in reality, it’s the environment that holds the greatest potential for change.

Dr Val described how environments that do not support a person’s natural self-expression can set up patterns of isolation and disconnection. For neurodivergent people, who often grow up in systems that don’t cater to their brain types, this means that isolation isn’t just social, it’s neurological.

The Neurology of Isolation

When we experience long-term social isolation, the brain’s prefrontal cortex—the part responsible for decision-making, critical thinking, and regulating emotions—begins to lose connection with other brain regions, especially the limbic system, which governs emotions and social processing.

As Dr Val put it, the brain’s “executive centre” becomes disconnected from its emotional core. This disconnection makes it harder to regulate emotions, harder to engage with others, and harder to find our place in the world.

Social isolation isn’t just a feeling, it’s a physiological state of disconnection inside the brain. And over time, those neural pathways become stronger, making it even harder to break the cycle.

But, here’s the hope: neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to form new pathways and change—means that these patterns are not fixed forever. Given a supportive environment, the brain can literally rewire itself for connection and belonging.

Connection Isn’t Always About the Room You’re In

Many of us assume that connection requires physical proximity, but Dr Val shared something remarkable: even virtual connections can trigger the same neurochemical responses. When we feel emotionally connected to someone, even through a screen, our brains release oxytocin (the love hormone) and serotonin (the happy molecule), while lowering stress hormones like cortisol.

In a world grappling with redefining “social,” this science matters. Whether through online communities, shared creative projects, or virtual conversations, genuine connection is still possible, still powerful, and still healing.

The Power of Environment to Heal and Empower

For neurodivergent people, the dominant narrative has often been “how do we fix this?” But Dr Val’s insights flip that narrative. Instead of focusing on what’s “wrong” with the individual, we should be asking:

👉 How can we change the environment to unlock their strengths, their joy, their connection?

This is the foundation of neuroaffirming practice—the belief that all neurotypes are whole, complete, and valuable as they are. When we design environments that affirm, include, and empower, we unlock not just individual potential, but collective brilliance.

As Dr Val affirmed, “Your environment is everything, including your social environment.”

The Invitation: Build New Environments, Together

Every time we create a space where people can play, explore, and connect without judgment, we offer an opportunity for the brain to rewire towards belonging. Whether that’s a LEGO build with 2,000 strangers, a workplace designed for neuroinclusion, or a conversation that sparks oxytocin across a screen, every moment of connection counts.

At Wondiverse, I believe in the magic of play, discovery, and togetherness. Not just as nice ideas, but as powerful interventions that change brains, lives, and communities.

The science is clear, and the mission is simple: let’s build environments where everyone belongs.

To hear our full conversation, click below.

In this podcast we speak with Dr Val Rytova, a Behavioural Neuroscientist with a fascination in Epigentics and making neuroscientist applicable to us all. We look at social isolation from both a scientific and lived experience perspective.

Love to hear your thoughts.