Social Wellness 101

As human beings, we are inherently social creatures (like it or not for our introverts out there). Our connections with others play a crucial role in our overall wellbeing. Social wellness refers to the quality of our relationships and our ability to interact and connect with others in a positive and meaningful way- and that LOOKS different for everyone. It encompasses our social support network, the strength of our relationships, and our sense of belonging.

Social wellness is the state of being socially connected and having a strong support system. It involves building and maintaining healthy relationships, fostering a sense of belonging, and engaging in positive social interactions. Social wellness is important because it impacts various aspects of our lives, including our mental and emotional health. When we have strong social connections, we experience greater happiness, reduced stress levels, and improved overall wellbeing. That’s a lot to say our social wellness is a good indicator of our overall wellbeing, including how supported we feel, our self esteem, and our value in our families, communities, and social circles. 

The impact

Social wellness has been linked to better physical health, increased life expectancy, and improved mental health. When we have strong social connections, we have a support system to lean on during challenging times. This support system can help us cope with stress, reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, and enhance our overall quality of life. (See below: A Flash Point for Health Policy)

Poor social wellness can manifest in various ways. Some common signs include feelings of loneliness, isolation, and a lack of meaningful connections. You may find it difficult to form and maintain relationships, and may feel disconnected from others. And as adults in our mid-30’s, we recognize how challenging it can be to develop friendships with other adults, or even keep friendships ongoing with our (way too) busy schedules.  Additionally, poor social wellness can contribute to higher levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. It's important to be aware of these signs and take steps to improve your social health.

Examples of social wellness in daily life

Social wellness can be cultivated in various aspects of our daily lives. It can be as simple as having a supportive group of friends, engaging in regular social activities, and being part of a community like a church or entrepreneur group. For example, joining a sports team or local gym, volunteering for a local charity, or participating in a book club are all examples of activities that promote social wellness. These activities provide opportunities for social interaction, connection, and a sense of belonging.

So, how do we improve our social wellness?

Building and maintaining positive relationships is key to improving social health and enhancing social wellness. Here are some strategies to help you strengthen your social connections:

1. Building and maintaining positive relationships

• Invest time and effort in your relationships. Reach out to friends and loved ones regularly and make an effort to stay connected.

• Practice active listening and empathy. Show genuine interest in others and be attentive to their needs and concerns.

• Communicate openly and honestly. Be transparent in your interactions and express your thoughts and feelings in a constructive manner.

• Resolve conflicts in a healthy way. Address issues as they arise and work towards finding mutually beneficial solutions.

Tip: If this list feels overwhelming, that’s ok! Pick one thing and practice it within an already comfortable relationship. Active listening is one that will always pay dividends.

2. Engaging in social activities and communities

• Seek out activities and hobbies that align with your interests. This will not only provide enjoyment but also allow you to meet like-minded individuals.

• Join clubs or organizations that promote social interaction. This could be a local sports team, a volunteer group or even becoming a member at a wellness studio or gym.

• Attend social events and gatherings. Take advantage of opportunities to meet new people and expand your social circle.

Tip: If you  don’t have a place to start, pick an online community and commit to tagging along with a friend to a new group/event!

3. Balancing online and offline social interactions

• While technology has made it easier to connect with others, it's important to strike a balance between online and offline interactions.

• Make an effort to have face-to-face interactions whenever possible. This helps build deeper connections and fosters a sense of intimacy.

• Limit your screen time and prioritize real-life interactions. Set boundaries for yourself and make time for in-person social activities.

Tip: Set a time oriented goal - every month I will have a minimum of one in person interaction!

The role of social wellness in mental health

Social wellness plays a crucial role in our mental health. Strong social connections provide emotional support, reduce stress, and promote a sense of belonging. When we have positive relationships and a support system, we are better equipped to cope with life's challenges. On the other hand, poor social wellness can contribute to feelings of loneliness, isolation, and even mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety. It is essential to prioritize social wellness as part of our mental health self-care routine.

Resources and tools for improving social wellness

There are several resources and tools available to help improve social wellness:

• Therapy or counseling: A mental health professional can provide guidance and support in developing healthy social skills and enhancing social wellness.

• Support groups: Joining a support group (like minded people or people in the same boat as you) can provide a safe and understanding space to connect with others who may be experiencing similar challenges.

• Social skills training: Some organizations offer workshops or courses to help individuals improve their social skills and build healthier relationships.

• Online communities: Virtual communities and forums can be a valuable resource for connecting with others who share similar interests or experiences.

Conclusion: Cultivating a balanced and fulfilling social life

Social wellness is a vital aspect of our overall wellbeing. It impacts our mental, emotional, and physical health. By investing in our social connections, engaging in meaningful activities, and prioritizing face-to-face interactions, we can enhance our social wellness and lead more fulfilling lives. Take the time to nurture your relationships, seek out social opportunities, and remember that building strong connections is an ongoing process. Prioritize your social health, and you'll reap the benefits of a balanced and fulfilling social life.

Now that you understand the importance of social wellness, take a moment to reflect on your own social health. Are there areas where you could improve? Consider implementing some of the strategies mentioned in this guide to enhance your social wellness and overall wellbeing. Remember, small steps can lead to significant changes in your social life. Start today and reap the rewards of a more connected and fulfilling life.

Excerpt from A Flash Point for Health Policy:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3150158/

Many types of scientific evidence show that involvement in social relationships benefits health. The most striking evidence comes from prospective studies of mortality across industrialized nations. These studies consistently show that individuals with the lowest level of involvement in social relationships are more likely to die than those with greater involvement (House, Landis, and Umberson 1988). For example, Berkman and Syme (1979) showed that the risk of death among men and women with the fewest social ties was more than twice as high as the risk for adults with the most social ties. Moreover, this finding held even when socioeconomic status, health behaviors, and other variables that might influence mortality, were taken into account. Social ties also reduce mortality risk among adults with documented medical conditions. For instance, Brummett and colleagues (2001) found that, among adults with coronary artery disease, the socially isolated had a risk of subsequent cardiac death 2.4 times greater than their more socially connected peers.