How stronger social connections could benefit your mental health

What is social connection? It’s the experience of feeling close and a sense of belonging with others. If the last few years have taught us anything, it’s that strong social connections are crucial to our wellbeing. As a growing body of research continues to confirm, physical and mental wellbeing is deeply intertwined with the relationships and social connections we hold with others.

There’s plenty of evidence for this. A recent study from a Massachusetts Hospital, for example, found that social connection (more so, than over 100+ other modifiable factors) was the strongest protective factor against depression.

Here’s even more eye-opening research. Studies have found that social isolation has an impact on our physical health that’s comparable to smoking and other risk factors like obesity and physical inactivity, too.

Turns out having a yarn over a cup of coffee may have more health benefits than you think. Dr Emma Seppälä, Science Director at Stanford University’s Centre for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education, has outlined a long list of advantages to regular social connection, including:

• Lower levels of anxiety and depression
• Higher self-esteem
• Improved physical health
• Improved mental and emotional wellbeing
• A strengthened immune system
• And increased longevity

A list of wellbeing wins almost every single one of us would want more of!

As New Zealand reopens after two long years of restricted contact, it’s time to get physical, not virtual, with our social plans. (Bonus points if you’re catching up in the great outdoors!)

So, why not grab a friend and try one of the following?

• Schedule time for a walk at a local park or beach and soak in a bit of nature
• Join a group activity with people who have similar interests via your local council – anything from hiking to music appreciation
• Join a fitness group or one of your local sport teams
• Work up a sweat with a fitness class at your local gym
• Offer to help those in need or volunteer at a local charity
• Find out about communal activities in your area and get involved

Not everyone finds socialising easy, though. If you consider yourself more of an introvert than an extrovert, here are some ways you can connect with friends and family without feeling overwhelmed.

AIA Vitality ambassador Ian Jones knows all about the power of community and providing a place for people to come together to talk, socialise, and connect. Eddie’s Meals is a community kitchen which aims to provide more than just meals to the local community, but a place to share stories, laugh and learn about others in a social and supportive environment. Covid restrictions have meant these monthly meet ups have not been able to go ahead as planned, but Ian is looking forward to opening the doors again next month (June).

“At Eddie's Meals, we don't judge anyone who walks through the door. We don't ask why they're there. We welcome them in and share the simple pleasures of good food and conversation. We treat others with respect, and we break bread with them. The greatest gift you can give someone is your time – whether that's a minute or an hour.” – Ian Jones

Facilities like Eddie’s meals – that provide space for people to catch up and connect – will hopefully be a bigger part of our future. After all, it’s clear that coming together can help all of us lead Healthier, Longer, Better Lives.