The Importance of Social Connection

Human beings are social creatures. We thrive on connections with others. Regular positive social interactions and strong social connections benefit us physically and emotionally and can actually lead to a longer life. But nurturing those connections is easier said than done, particularly with the prevalence of remote work and a full load of personal responsibilities. The cold, grey winter months make it even harder to get ourselves out of the house or out of routine. Here’s why it’s worth the effort.

The Benefits of Social Connection

Multiple studies have shown that people with strong social bonds are healthier. The effects are significant and wide-ranging, from helping to maintain a healthy body mass index and decrease the effects of depression, to increasing cancer survival rates, not to mention the simple boost to overall mental health by spending time with people we enjoy. A strong social network can help you recover faster from illness or injury and better deal with stress. So, how do we nurture and strengthen these connections to lead a healthier life?

Nurturing Social Connection

THINK COMMUNITY

A hub of social connection, a healthy, safe, and resilient community offers support and inclusion to its members. Participating in a neighbourhood, school, church, hobby or interest group can help you feel connected to others. In turn, your involvement strengthens the community itself. Luckily, there are countless small ways to engage with or give back.

Take a class
Volunteer with a local organization
Participate in a local park clean up or attend a community meeting
Get involved a your kids' school
Support a local restaurant or shop
Do a favour for a neighbour

BUILD HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS

Meaningful and diverse connections with others are central to our emotional wellbeing. Our ties to friends, family, coworkers, and neighbours give us a sense of belonging, and these social networks can provide emotional and practical support and step in when we need help. Offering help to others boosts our health too. Strengthening relationships is an ongoing process but simple interactions can have a big impact.

Be polite and respectful in your interactions
Practice active listening
Play with your kids; set a date night with your partner
Call a family member or friend just to check-in
Have a game night or workout date with friends
Get coffee with a co-worker
Chat with a local business owner

TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF

Building healthy relationships starts with ourselves. The saying ‘you can’t pour from an empty cup’ is a great image to remind us to nurture our own wellness, especially if we’re taking care of others, or need help ourselves to muster the energy to be social. Self-care is crucial, whatever that may look like for you.

Set boundaries; ask for help; join a support group
Cook a nutritious meal; go for a walk; take regular breaks
Get organized in whatever way will help create space for your needs

Take a moment to check in on your wellbeing. The more connected we are with ourselves, the more we gain from and give to our connections with others.

This Wellness Moment is from Health Plus Insurance. Read our past Wellness Moments. From our family to yourself, take care. If you're a Health Plus plan member remember you have access to free professional Wellness Resources.