SOCIAL CONNECTEDNESS
It’s a key to good health
With the coverage of the recent heat wave, I was struck by comments of people staying indoors and concerns about isolation. Upon reflection, perhaps it is that we are more aware of isolation because of experiences with COVID isolation. That got me thinking about social connections and why they are important. People are by nature social creatures (as are many animals). According to the CDC, social connections are important for our survival.
Social connection and social connectedness are described as a feeling of being close and connected to others. Feeling like you belong and have the support and care you need, as well as the number, quality, and diversity of relationships you want. Feeling you have opportunities to give care and support to others. For each person it is different. Information below is from the CDC website.
WHY DOES CONNECTEDNESS MATTER?
■ High-quality relationships can help people live longer, healthier lives.
■ Supportive and inclusive relationships can protect against the harmful health effects of loneliness and social isolation.
DOES SOCIAL CONNECTEDNESS AFFECT HEALTH?
Research shows that social connectedness can lead to a longer life, better health, and improved well-being. Our relationships with family, friends, coworkers, and more broadly community members can have a major impact on us.
When people feel like others care about them, they are more likely to make healthy choices and have better mental and physical health outcomes. They are also able to cope better with hard times, stress, anxiety, and depression.
HEALTH RISKS OF SOCIAL ISOLATION AND LONELINESS
People who are socially isolated do not necessarily feel lonely. A person with lots of friends can feel lonely.
■ Social isolation increases your risk of: Dementia by 50%
■ Heart disease by 29%
■ Stroke by 32%
WAYS TO IMPROVE SOCIAL CONNECTEDNESS
■ Make time for social connections. Give social contact the attention needed to build relationships. Initiate socialization and be available when others invite you to socialize.
■ Look for diversity in your social network, i.e.: tennis, golf, movies, reading, crafts, gym, professional organizations, etc. Consider people who have different viewpoints.
■ Provide support to others. We have heard from people who are recognized for volunteering say, “I get more than I give.”
■ Ask for help and support when you need it — mental or physical. If you are laid up and cannot leave your home, have a list of things you need help with. When a friend calls to offer help, have a request ready. Your friends do want to help — it’s a win-win.
■ Take steps to address conflict or negative feelings when they arise. Practice grace and kindness.
■ Don’t let time online distract you from engaging with people. Does social media make you feel better or worse, and then adjust as appropriate.
■ If you can, prepare for life changes— retirement, job changes, or others that may affect your ability to maintain and develop social connections.
■ Be mindful and present during social time. Put away the cell phone, lap top, turn off the TV or eliminate other distractions.
■ Talk to a health professional about changes in feelings of loneliness or isolation.
LOW COST OR NO COST WAYS TO CONNECT
Look for opportunities in the community to connect with others.
■ Community centers and senior centers have many activities to socialize with others.
■ Volunteer opportunities.
■ Neighborhood associations
■ Clubs with a shared interest or a new interest.
■ Libraries host groups and may have contacts with book clubs.
■ Places of worship.
■ Reconnect with family members you haven’t seen or spoken to in a while.
■ Reconnect with friends you lost track of over time.
SOCIAL CONNECTEDNESS AND YOUTH
We are still learning about the effects of COVID on learning and social connectedness. The time the young and adolescents were isolated is a greater percentage of their lives than for adults. Children who feel connected to people and institutions in their community do better when dealing with risk factors.
Youth who feel socially connected tend to have higher self-esteem and increased empathy for others. They are less likely to have mental health issues, experience violence, engage in risky sexual behavior and use substances.
In addition to the points made above:
■ With school starting soon, look for extra-curricular activities and clubs that are supportive networks.
■ Internship programs.
■ Study groups. Peer tutoring.
■ Make time for family socializing. Socialize for your happiness and health.