The Importance of Social Connections for Your Overall Health
These days, it may be easy to feel disconnected from the world or alone, even more so if you’re struggling with your physical or mental health. If you are, know that you’re not alone. Building strong social connections and interactions can help fight these negative feelings and impacts. Humans are social creatures by nature, making social links critical to your overall wellbeing and health. Below, we outline why social connections are important.
How Being Alone Impacts Your Health
Even the self-proclaimed loner needs someone to talk to. Being alone and isolated can have a severe negative impact on your health and wellbeing. When you don’t have anyone to rely on, vent, or talk to, you’re at a much higher risk of experiencing loneliness. This can lead to various negative health complications, including anxiety, depression, and physical illnesses.
Four Benefits of Having People to Connect With
Have you ever heard the saying, “A conversation a day keeps the depression away?” You may not realise it, but connecting to people can actually help your overall mental health! These connections can help you form an invaluable support system that can encourage and help you keep going.
There’s such a refreshing satisfaction that comes with feeling seen and heard, as well as knowing that you’re not alone. Having family or friends — or even strangers — to connect with also gives you excellent opportunities for personal development and growth. A few of the biggest benefits of having people to connect with include but are not limited to the following:
1. Boosts General Wellbeing and Mental Health
Having social connections can make life easier to manage when you have a support system in your corner that makes you feel seen and heard. Life can be tough, so having someone you can share your feelings, thoughts, and experiences with can be a great mental health boost! In turn, this can help you feel valued and validated. Not only can this increase your sense of belonging, but it can also positively influence your wellbeing and mental health.
2. Improves Your Confidence and Feelings of Self-Worth
Forming these vital connections can also help improve your confidence levels and your self-worth. You’re more likely to be more confident and comfortable when you’re surrounded with people who support and care about you, which can make social situations more enjoyable and exciting. In addition, these connections can be a foundation you use to build positive, lasting relationships that make you feel good about yourself.
3. Lowers Anxiety and Depression
You can lower your feelings of depression and anxiety by having a few social connections. It’s very easy to fall into a negative mindset and thought patterns when you feel alone or isolated. However, when you have a friend or family member you can contact and share your struggles or thoughts with, you can get validation and support to help change your thinking. Talking with others can help you learn healthy habits and form a strong support system for good and bad days, which will be a great mental health boost.
4. Strengthens Your Immune System and Decreases Disease Risks
Social connections can actually help strengthen your immune system! Connecting with others reduces your risk of developing certain diseases like high blood pressure, obesity, or cardiovascular issues. Generally speaking, those who take the time to form strong connections have better overall health than those who isolate themselves. Additionally, having a tribe of people to connect with can decrease inflammation, which is a considerable risk factor for several dangerous diseases.
Social Connections Are Vital
Social connections are essential for your wellbeing and overall health, and it’s important to make sure you have them. Whether you’re fighting physical or mental health problems or you’re just feeling disconnected from the world, know that you’re not alone. Finding your tribe of people and building these connections can make a positive difference in your life. When you’re ready to connect, try joining a club or group and reach out to your friends or family to find ways to form solid, lasting connections. Eventually, your wellbeing and health will thank you for it.
