Socializing for Mental Wellness

No matter your age or background, mental wellness plays an important role in your health. And whether you realize it or not, your social circle – or lack of it – can have a huge impact on it.

When we were young, building a social circle seemed effortless. It usually involved having a few things in common with a neighbor or classmate. It was enough to call them a best friend.

As young adults, those social circles were built on similar life stages -- attending the same college, having children the same age, or working at the same company.

But life progresses, circumstances change. Children grow up, careers wind down, and making new friends becomes a lot harder to do. Feelings of isolation and loneliness can become all-consuming if you are not intentional about maintaining your social circle.

Fortunately, there are simple ways to make socializing a regular part of your life no matter your age. Let’s explore how.

 

Benefits of Social Activity on Mental Health
Socializing is about more than being the life of the party or having a lot of friends. It is about connection. When we feel connected to other people, it has a positive impact on our health.

Here are several benefits of feeling socially connected:
● It may reduce your risk of dementia. Recent studies have shown there may be a connection between isolation and risk of dementia. Social activity may help lower that risk. (1)
● It may help you manage stressful situations better. Unexpected situations are inevitable in life, creating stress, frustration, and sadness. Support from other people can give you the mental and emotional stamina you need to navigate those situations.
● It may help you combat feelings of loneliness. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “[a]bout 1 in 3 adults in the U.S. report feeling lonely.” (2) Social activity can help you feel more connected to others.

 

Common Challenges to Consistent Social Activity
A lack of social activity is not always because someone does not want to be more social. Sometimes other obstacles make it difficult. For example:
● Accessibility: For some, group events or activities are not very close to where they live. They have to drive a long way to participate. This can be challenging for those who have to rely on others for a ride.
● Physical barriers: Health concerns or physical limitations may limit participation.
● Cost: Membership fees, activity fees, or transportation costs may be a barrier, especially for those on a fixed income.
● Social anxiety: For others, unfamiliar social settings can make socializing feel daunting.

 

Tips for Increasing Social Activity
How do you overcome these barriers and increase your social activity? Here are a few tips:

Tip #1: Reach out to family and friends.
Start small. Pick up the phone and call your family members and friends. In the age of emails and text messages, it can be refreshing to hear someone’s voice. If you’re feeling really motivated, plan to meet up in person. Meet for lunch or simply
enjoy a glass of iced tea together on the front porch. It doesn’t matter as long as you do it together.

 

Tip #2: Meet your neighbors.
New friends are closer than you think! The people in your very own neighborhood can be a great source of social connection. Take time to say hello the next time you are watering your garden. Give a warm smile and a friendly wave during your morning walk around the neighborhood. Simple gestures like these on a regular basis can open doors to new friendships.

 

Tip #3: Get involved in the community.
Our very own Madison County is teeming with opportunities for you to get involved. Local non-profits can always use an extra pair of hands. Churches often have special events and small groups designed to deepen relationships. The local library has book clubs and workshops you can join for little to no cost.

 

Tip #4: Join a fitness community.
You don’t have to choose between social activity and your fitness. When you join a fitness community, you can make new friends while staying physically active. Here at Restoring Bodies, we’re always happy to have you!

 

Tip #5: Prioritize quality interactions over quantity.
Increasing your social activity does not mean filling your days with non-stop activities. In fact, doing that can have the opposite effect on your health, potentially leading you to burnout. Instead, choose activities that bring you the most joy and satisfaction.

 

Conclusion
While aging is an inevitable part of life, aging alone is not. Community is essential at every stage of life, especially as we age. So embrace your social side and remember: "We were never meant to do life alone." - Unknown

Additional Sources Consulted:
● Psychology Today. The Health Benefits of Socializing.
● U.S.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Social Connection.
● U.S.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Improving Social Connectedness.

Momence: https://momence.com/u/restoring-bodies-fitness-&-nutrition-services-htyzkc