Mental health and Wellness: Importance of Human Connections

Our mental health is deeply intertwined with our relationships with others. Human connection, whether through family, friends, significant others, or community, is vital to our overall well-being. Every day brings change and new people into our lives. Whether it's a friend you've known since childhood or someone you met briefly on your way to work, these interactions can shape our experiences and influence our mental health.

Many people identify as introverted, extroverted, or somewhere in between (ambivert, which is the case for most of us). Regardless of your personality type, it's important to recognise that all feelings are valid. Humans are social creatures who value close relationships, and there's no one-size-fits-all approach to experiencing these connections.

Social Support:

Emotional Support is the base of human connection. It's about having individuals who genuinely care about us, listen attentively to our concerns, and validate our feelings. This understanding presence can offer a profound sense of comfort and understanding, especially during challenging times.

Practical Support goes beyond emotional validation. It involves tangible actions that can alleviate stress and provide concrete assistance. Friends and family may offer help with chores, provide financial aid, or simply lend a listening ear. This practical support can make a significant difference in someone's life, especially when they are feeling overwhelmed or stressed.

Information Support is just as important. Connecting with others who have similar experiences can provide invaluable insights and coping strategies. Sharing advice, stories, and resources can help individuals feel less alone and more empowered to navigate their challenges.

Sense of Belonging:

Social Identity is a basic aspect of our self-concept. Our relationships with others help shape who we are, our values, and our place in the world. These connections provide a sense of belonging and identity, contributing to our overall well-being.

Purpose and Meaning are often found within our social connections. Feeling part of a group or community can give us a sense of purpose and direction. Whether it's a family, a team, or a larger social group, these connections provide a sense of belonging and shared experiences.

Preventing Loneliness and isolation through strong social connections is important, When we have people who care about us and share our experiences, we feel less alone and more connected to the world.

Stress Reduction:

Distractions like spending time with loved ones can provide a break from the pressures of life. Engaging in enjoyable activities together can help shift our focus and provide a temporary escape from stressors.

Positive Emotions are essential for our well-being. Social interactions like sharing laughter, joy, and fun experiences with others can boost our mood and reduce stress.

Shared Experiences can also be therapeutic. Talking about our challenges with others can help normalize our feelings and reduce the sense of isolation that stress can often bring. Knowing that we are not alone in our struggles can provide comfort and support.

Building Resilience:

Coping Mechanisms are essential tools for navigating life's challenges. Learning from the experiences of others can help us develop healthy and effective coping strategies. By observing how others manage challenges, we can gain valuable insights and adapt their techniques to our situations.

A strong support network is needed during difficult times. Having people who believe in us and offer encouragement can provide the motivation we need to persevere. A supportive network can also offer practical assistance and emotional support, helping us to overcome challenges.

Overcoming challenges together can strengthen our resilience and self-esteem. When we face hardships with the support of others, we learn that we are capable of overcoming obstacles. This shared experience can boost our confidence and resilience, enabling us to navigate future challenges with greater strength and determination.

Tips for Building Strong Connections:

• Prioritize Relationships by making time for the people who matter most to you.

• Be Authentic and share your thoughts and feelings honestly. Being vulnerable to people you trust is not a weakness.

• Show genuine interest in others' lives cause, let’s be honest- no one likes a narcissist.

• Offer Support by being there for your loved ones when they need you.

• Find groups or organizations that align with your interests.

Remember, strong human connections are essential for our mental health. By nurturing these relationships, we can improve our overall well-being and build a more fulfilling life.

References

1. Seppala, E. (2023, March 23). Connectedness & Health: The Science of Social Connection- The Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education. The Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education. https://ccare.stanford.edu/uncategorized/connectedness-health-the-science-of-social-conn ection-infographic/

2. Humanconnection boosts our mental health, here are 4 ways we can connect with others. (2024, September 10). World Economic Forum. https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2022/07/mental-health-connection-psychology-relation ships/

3. Stiles, K. (2021, November 15). The Importance of Connection. Psych Central. https://psychcentral.com/lib/the-importance-of-connection

4. MSEd, K. C. (2023, March 3). How Social Support Contributes to Psychological Health. Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/social-support-for-psychological-health-4119970