On Your Mind

The Power of Connection: How Social Relationships Impact Our Health

By Gabi Powell

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I stand in solidarity with introverts: take me where the people aren’t. Alone is my happy place. Nirvana is the moment I leave the party and you cannot convince me otherwise.

But last week, the U.S. Surgeon General dropped an advisory about social connection that is doing the most to try.

Evidence shows that connection is linked to better heart health, brain health and immunity.

Woah. Bold claim.

Being more socially connected can improve stress responses and minimize the negative health effects of stress.

Okay, I’m listening.

People with strong perceptions of community belongingness are 2.6 times more likely to report good or excellent health than people with a low sense of belongingness.

That’s quite intriguing.

The evidence goes deep and wide to make it clear: social connection not only betters our physical + mental wellbeing but is vital to the health of our communities.

I’ve been got – completely sold on the benefits of connection. So what can I do to up my social IQ + improve my well-being? The advisory lays out some simple suggestions:

1. NURTURE RELATIONSHIPS

Connection is not a one-and-done gesture, but a consistent effort to engage with others! Have a standing phone date with your best Betty or plan a monthly meet-up with friends.

2. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS

Power down the Netflix and give your phone a break – be present in your conversations + make the most of your time together by letting your people know they have your full attention.

3. SEEK TO SUPPORT

Find opportunities to serve others – whether that’s your own friends and family or volunteer with community service.

4. VALUE YOUR RELATIONSHIPS

Be responsive to, supportive of, and express gratitude for your relationships! Practicing these behaviors can strengthen social bonds + improve relationship satisfaction.

5. EXPAND YOUR CIRCLE

Variety is the spice of life! And the same goes for your relationships, Betties. Interact with people from different backgrounds to broaden your understanding + deepen your empathy for others.

6. PARTICIPATE IN A GROUP

Whatever your interests – fitness, religious, hobby, professional + community service – there’s a community for you! Connecting with a group can foster a sense of belonging, meaning, and purpose.

7. REMOVE YOUR ROADBLOCKS

Consider this: what practices keep you from connecting with others or lead to feelings of disconnection? Work to cut out these isolating habits.

8. SEEK HELP

If you’re going through a season of loneliness, reach out to your support system. We often think our role in relationships is to always be actively “doing” for others, but a large component of connection is asking for help and allowing your people to support you.

For immediate help, please contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

9. SHARE WITH YOUR PROVIDER

Mental health is health, Betties. Be open with your provider about any significant social changes in your life. That stressful relationship, job change, or breakup – those things impact your capital-h health!

 

A word to all my introverts: You don’t have to betray your you-ness to benefit from connection. Implementing these strategies can help you create and cultivate relationships that will expand your life without robbing you of your alone time.

Give it a whirl Betties. Opt into the power of connection and tell us how you feel it’s improving your whole-self health.

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