Did you know that maintaining relationships is a key aspect of maintaining your mental and emotional health? If you’re in a social slump right now, don’t panic. You’ll be ready to get back out there once you understand the importance of social connection for mental health.
What is “Social Connection?”
The more we learn about mental health, the clearer it becomes that having social connections is essential to a person’s well-being. But what kinds of relationships qualify? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines a person’s level of social connectedness as the number of supportive relationships they have in their life. This can include friends, family members, and even acquaintances like co-workers.
It’s also important to note that social connectedness is a subjective definition that depends on your own particular social wants and needs. If you aren’t an extrovert, you may be happier with a smaller social group than others. As long as your social needs are being met, you can be content with your level of social connection. However, if you frequently experience feelings of loneliness or disconnection from others, a lack of social connection may be why.
Social Connection Gives Us Support in Times of Need
One of the most important parts of social connectedness is that it provides reliable support when you’re experiencing difficulties. Did you know that 71 percent of people reach out to friends or family in times of stress? A reliable network of friends can give you someone to listen to you, commiserate, and even provide material support if needed. Even small interactions like a quick hello can boost your mood and make tough days easier to handle.
Social Connection Can Improve Your Outlook
Having people to rely on when things are tough is helpful, but social connectedness provides other tools that can help, too. People who feel connected to others have higher self-esteem and lower levels of depression and anxiety. Having a supportive social network also leads to higher levels of empathy, trust, and cooperation with others. In other words, the more people in your life that you can rely on, the better you’ll feel about yourself and your level of social connectedness.
A Lack of Social Connection Can Have a Negative Effect on Your Mental Health
While having a robust social network can be a positive for your mental health, not having the social connections you need can lead you in the opposite direction. Human beings are social animals, and we struggle to thrive when we are disconnected from each other. Lower levels of social connectedness can cause problems ranging from anxiety and depression to insomnia. If you want to be proactive about maintaining your mental health, social connectedness is very important.
How Can I Improve My Level of Social Connection?
If you’re in a social slump, it’s a good idea to find some activities that can help you make new friends and acquaintances. You can volunteer your time with a cause you love, find a new class or activity to join, or just reach out to some old friends and reconnect. If being a senior makes social connections challenging for you, assisted living might provide the community you need.
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Now that you know the importance of social connection for mental health, what can you do to improve your social life? If you’re curious how assisted living can support seniors in finding the connections they’re looking for, give us a call at Waterstone on Augusta.
Are you seeking a premier assisted living and memory care community in downtown Greenville, South Carolina? Visit us at Waterstone on Augusta. Our community is relaxing and elegant, and we strive to enhance the quality of life of the seniors we serve through teamwork and unity. To learn more about our amenities and to view our lovely community, please schedule a tour online or call us today at 864-605-7236.