The New Cure for Loneliness? Your Path to Social Wellness
Loneliness has become a big concern today. More and more of us are experiencing the sting of feeling alone. It's such a major public health crisis that it's been referred to as an epidemic. Loneliness isn't just about being by yourself, it's about feeling like you don't belong. As we all know, a person can feel lonely even in a room full of people.
July is Social Wellness Month. It serves as a timely reminder of the importance of our relationships and our need for social connectedness.
Why Is Loneliness So Common?
Loneliness is so common today for multiple reasons. Our emotional and social wellness has been adversely impacted by social, cultural and technological changes. Here's a list of contributors to the problem.
remote work
social media
smaller support systems
families living farther apart
moving more frequently and distant
busyness and stress
changing culture
emphasis on independence and self sufficiency
relationships are more complex
mental Health Struggles
Social Wellness – More Than A Number
Often what matters most in combatting loneliness is not simply the numbers of our interactions, but the quality of our exchanges. Meaningful connections where we feel seen, understood and known make a big difference. One honest, vulnerable conversation matters more than lots of casual banter.
What The Doctor Ordered
One of the fastest growing initiatives to combat loneliness is called social prescribing. Healthcare providers are beginning to treat anxiety and depression in their patients with social activity prescriptions rather than just medication. Connecting people to activities in their communities like volunteering, taking classes in everything from art to gardening, and joining support groups, all share the goal of creating a sense of belonging. Therapists are asking questions like "Who do you feel connected to?" and "Where do you feel you belong?" to assess a client's social support network. This recognition of the importance of connection.
The Living Room Model
A big focus is on providing opportunities for both younger and older people. In Illinois, peer-run "Living Room" programs are providing places for people to hang out, connect and get support. Having a safe, comfortable place to go can make all the difference.
Making the Most of Social Wellness Month
You can participate in Social Wellness Month by being intentional about strengthening your own social network. Reach out to a friend, spend extra time with family, join a community group, take a class, volunteer or simply have more meaningful conversations. It's not about the number of people in our lives, but the quality of our relationships and our feeling of belonging that matters.
Let's work together toward making a more connected world where no one feels alone.
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