The 7 Benefits of Social Connection
Remember how hard it was to be separated from people throughout all the COVID-19 lockdowns. Remember how quickly we all felt that incredible sense of loss because we weren’t able to move about freely and see the people we loved. Research into loneliness and isolation shows that not only do people need people, we need those authentic relationships and a sense of community to thrive! Social connections play a crucial role in our health and well-being. Without meaningful connections with others, the result can be social isolation, which can lead to a deterioration of our well-being and negatively impact our health.
The concept of social connection encompasses social support, participation, and belonging (community). It is a support system that is significant in terms of having a positive impact on our overall health and well-being.
When we are socially connected, we are more likely to lead healthier, happier, and longer lives. Numerous studies have shown that social isolation and loneliness can lead to a variety of health problems. These are not limited to mental health issues, cardiovascular disease, and even premature death. Given the importance of social connection for health, it is crucial that we find ways to promote and support social connection in our communities.
Technology is one way we can promote social connections. This can be achieved through a number of different media platforms such as through social media to connect with family and friends or online forums and discussion groups to connect with others who share the same interest or lived experiences.
Here are seven (7) benefits of Social Connection:
Better memory and focus
Research shows that people with a higher social connection are more likely to have good cognitive health and are less susceptible to progressive degeneration.
Lower levels of anxiety, stress, and depression
Studies indicate that a person’s social connections can both prevent depression from developing and treat existing depression. People who are more connected to others have lower rates of anxiety and depression.
Less likely to experience loneliness
Loneliness is a specific risk factor in mental health. According to studies, people with diverse social networks (involving interaction involving family, friends, informal group memberships, etc.) reported fewer depressive symptoms.
Higher self-esteem and more empathy with others
People with diverse social connections are also more empathic, trusting, and cooperative, according to research. Consequently, they enjoy a greater degree of trust and openness from others.
Live longer
The relationship between social engagements and mortality has long been established. These opportunities for meaningful interactions can help reduce isolation and loneliness, and in turn, improve mental and physical health. Studies show that it’s not just the leisure of physical activity but instead, the productive engagement with others in the process of participating in activities that makes for a longer life expectancy.
More confident, cooperative, and trusting
Spending quality time with others gives you that mindset to understand each other. That level of understanding makes you communicate better and gives you that sense of trust.
Higher resilience in adverse events and situations
Social connection can also lead to increased feelings of joy and satisfaction. It gives off a supportive atmosphere that provides a sense of security.
Next Steps
Living a healthier life always starts with ourselves. Whether it is saying “yes” to a yoga class invitation or deciding to eat more greens every weekend, or perhaps choosing to go to a park instead of a cinema. It may be a simple small step, but it can make a huge difference. We all need to know that in whatever situation we may be in, we always have a choice to make a better decision. So let’s choose to be better. Choose to have a better situation, better sleeping patterns, or a better environment by being socially connected.
Here’s a list of helpful tips on how we can all improve our social connections:
Reflection: Is there anything that you would like to change about yourself? Is there something that you would like to accomplish? Is there anything that you would like to start doing?
Thoughts run emotions: Let’s be careful of automatic thoughts or how we think of ourselves. There may be times when we automatically downplay some small achievement. we get. This may be due to several factors that hinder us from being happy and instead, we compare ourselves with others. It is best to initiate positive self talk, recognise the achievement and celebrate it.
Participate: Online or offline, we can participate by talking or listening. So, let’s say “yes” to online social events or meeting a friend face-to-face. Be present. We’ll never know what good things might happen unless we try.
Have an inner circle: Being close to our families and friends promotes better well-being and quicker recovery from physical illness. This enhances our quality of life because we know that we are understood and supported.
We all need to be socially connected. There are people worth trusting, people that genuinely care, and people that would like you to be better or feel better.
We just have to make that choice to give it a try.
