Social connectedness is one of the most essential elements for mental health. This type of connection involves regular contact with those who matter most to you.
These relationships are usually founded on trust, empathy and a genuine concern for each other’s wellbeing. Such bonds can help reduce stress levels, promote mental health and ultimately make you happier.
1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Health is more than physical wellbeing; it encompasses our social lives as well. Indeed, research has indicated that having a supportive network is one of the most influential elements when it comes to mental wellbeing.
People who feel lonely and isolated tend to exhibit higher rates of anxiety, depression and antisocial behaviors than their connected peers. Furthermore, these individuals may develop physical symptoms like high blood pressure – a known risk factor for heart disease – as well as psychological issues like guilt.
The most effective way to reduce stress and anxiety is having social connections – both in your personal life and work environment. Your friends will be there for support during difficult times, laugh with you when you’re laughing, offer advice and ideas, as well as give encouragement and support when needed.
Research has demonstrated that social support can reduce stress by strengthening our ability to manage stressful situations and self-regulate. Three types of social support are especially valuable when dealing with stress: perceived, companionship and instrumental.
2. Improves Mental Health
People who feel a strong connection to others tend to experience better mental health outcomes. This connection often results in lower rates of anxiety and depression, increased self-worth, and greater empathy towards others.
Additionally, healthy relationships can aid in recovery from illness and extend your life. They may aid with controlling blood sugar levels, improving cancer survival rates, as well as decreasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Loneliness, on the other hand, can lead to serious mental health problems and mortality. Prolonged loneliness and social isolation exert more strain on human brains and bodies than even major risks like obesity or air pollution do.
Studies are indicating that the COVID-19 Pandemic has intensified feelings of loneliness and isolation, potentially explaining why research is finding that people often seek psychological counseling due to this increase in social connection.
3. Helps You Live Longer
Social connections have been scientifically proven to extend life expectancies by decreasing the risk of several health issues such as heart disease and depression. Furthermore, studies reveal that people who feel more connected to their friends, family, and communities tend to be happier and healthier overall than those who do not.
BYU psychology professor Julianne Holt-Lunstad notes that research into how relationships impact longevity has been growing for years. In 2010, she conducted a meta-analysis of 148 studies on this subject.
According to a study, those with social connections had an increased chance of living longer than those without them. Social connections proved just as influential in terms of promoting health and longevity as smoking, alcoholism, and lack of exercise.
4. Increases Self-Esteem
Social connections are invaluable when it comes to feeling your best. From sharing stories of a memorable night out to discussing the difficulties in daily life, these bonds can lift your mood, boost self-esteem and even improve physical health.
Furthermore, the advantages of social connectedness go far beyond personal connections. People who take time out of their day to engage with those around them create happier and more productive societies – a win-win for everyone involved.
Studies have demonstrated that having a supportive social network can reduce stress and depression, as well as boost one’s self-esteem. These benefits are especially significant for women who tend to experience more bouts of depression than men.
