Social Wellness Month

July 2022

“When ‘I’ is replaced by ‘We’ even illness becomes wellness.” — Malcolm X

In the last couple of years, we’ve been instructed to socially distance ourselves from one another. Although the goal has been to keep ourselves physically healthy by preventing the spread of the Corona Virus, many have become socially isolated resulting in an increase in mental, physical, and emotional health issues.  As Covid-19 numbers continue to fluctuate we are encouraged to cautiously proceed in meeting with others. Thankfully, this presents us with a wonderful opportunity to wisely reengage and grow our social network. 

For some, the thought of doing so might create anxiety. Not everyone finds it natural to initiate contact or connect with others. One can feel vulnerable or afraid of what might occur. We may fear rejection, criticism, or abandonment. Sometimes unhealed past wounds tempt us to retreat and avoid potential opportunities for social connection. However, choosing not to invest in our social wellbeing can have detrimental effects on our overall health.   

According to the American Psychological Association, “Emotional support is an important protective factor for dealing with life’s difficulties, while loneliness has been associated with a wide variety of health problems including high blood pressure, diminished immunity, cardiovascular disease and cognitive decline.” Teo et. al. (2013) suggest a link between Major Depressive Disorder and limited or poor connectedness in relationships. Likewise, a review of various social health studies by Holt-Lunstad et. al. (2010) highlights the connection between social relationships and mortality risks. They conclude that individuals with sufficient social connectedness have a 50% higher probability of remaining alive than those with minimal to no support.

Similar to physical wellness, social wellness takes time, commitment, effort and intentionality.

Several years ago, I relocated to Arkansas leaving behind my cherished family and friends.  Although we remain in touch and visit as often as possible, making social connections and developing support within my new community was imperative. I had recently begun to feel lonely following the move and after several months, depressed.  I was acclimating to a new “culture”, missing my loved ones and had a deep desire to connect with other women. In an attempt to cultivate social wellness in my life, I chose to initiate coffee dates with women at my new church, volunteer to serve the homeless, and attended other outreach events where I met wonderful people from various organizations and churches.  To be honest, there were moments of disappointment along the way, but I refused to surrender to isolation. It’s now been five years and I’m grateful for all my relationships and continue to work on strengthening and growing my social network. I encourage you to do the same.

Ways to Strengthen and Grow Your Social Network:

• Self-Awareness—Take some time to assess who you are and the current needs in your life. What are some of your relational strengths?  In which areas could you improve your social skills?  What do you hope to gain from a relationship? The more we learn about ourselves, the better we are able to provide support and receive it in return. 

• Reconnect—Life gets busy and we sometimes lose touch with people we’ve enjoyed being around in the past. Consider getting in touch with a friend, former classmate, or co-worker you haven’t spoken to in awhile. 

• Choose to meet people—What are your hobbies and interests? Perhaps you enjoy going to the gym, creating art, or traveling.  With numerous activities available that one can participate in to meet others, it’s just a matter of being intentional and putting yourself out there.

• Volunteer—There are many organizations seeking individuals willing to invest their time and energy to help others. Whether it’s mentoring or serving at a soup kitchen, everyone has a skill or talent they can impart.  Not only will you be providing a much-needed service to your community, but you’ll be opening yourself up to the exciting prospect of making new friends.

• Utilize Technology—Although not a substitute for human connection through actual physical presence, technology has played a significant role in people’s lives during the pandemic.  As we’ve witnessed here at Arkansas Hospice, Zoom has afforded us the ability to “meet” for IDG and Stand Up/Stand Down as well as provide individual tele-grief support and facilitate tele-grief support groups. Using platforms that support online social interaction allows us to connect with family and friends in a convenient way.  

• Seek Professional Assistance—If you find it overwhelmingly difficult to implement the suggestions above it might be helpful to consider speaking with a counselor. Counseling can offer a safe space to explore one’s feelings and problems, especially social challenges.

Cultivating social wellness may not feel comfortable or natural, but it is necessary for our wellbeing.  Like many things in life, pursuing social enrichment may exact a personal cost.  However, if researchers are correct, your life may depend on it!

Be Well …

---