Everyone feels lonely from time to time. But on occasion, we find ourselves in situations where we’re more likely to feel isolated and missing meaningful connection with others for longer periods of time. Health problems that make it hard to leave the house, being unemployed, having limited social interactions or having relationships that don’t feel meaningful can all leave us feeling sad and solitary. Let’s take a closer look at the importance of relationships and deep social connections in our lives, as well as how loneliness can affect our health.
What are social connections?
Social connections are the relationships you have with the people around you. These could be close, like family, friends and coworkers, or more distant, with people you only know casually.
We all have different networks of relationships–some networks are big and some small. One or two close family members or friends may be all you need to feel supported and valued. Your connections might be close by or live far away. But no matter what your circle looks like, what’s important is that you are there for each other.
Why are social connections important?
Building positive relationships with other people can improve our own resilience. Resilience is the ability to bounce back after stressful situations and it is strengthened when you give and receive support with others. The support you get from your social connections adds to the feeling of meaning and purpose in your life. This, in turn, adds to your resilience. And resilient people tend to be more connected to the people around them.
Giving support to others is just as important as receiving it. Being supportive helps build the social bonds that make you resilient. Just as you count on your social connections, they also count on you. Ask others about their families, jobs and interests, and help them when you can. Don't always focus on your challenges or talk about yourself. Know when it's time to listen or just enjoy your friends' company.
How can loneliness affect your health?
Not having close connections and relationships with others can result in feelings of loneliness and depression. Loneliness can cause higher amounts of stress hormones in your body, which can, in turn, lead to negative physical effects. It can make it hard to sleep well, think clearly and avoid illness. Feeling lonely can also make it feel hard to take care of your health or to get help when you’re having problems.
If you're lonely for a long time, your risk for certain health conditions may increase. These conditions can include:
How can you help older adults stay connected?
Older adults can often struggle to get around and out of the house, which can make them more likely to feel lonely and isolated. But there are lots of ways to help older family members, friends and neighbors feel connected, such as:
- Stopping by for a visit.
- Calling just to say “hi.”
- Asking if they need anything from the store.
- Spending time with them outdoors.
- Helping them set up video calling if they are farther away.
How to build positive relationships
If you feel like you could use more positive relationships in your life, it’s never too late to start cultivating them! Here are a few ideas of ways to get started building relationships:
- Invite a friend who makes you laugh to watch a funny movie.
- Send an encouraging email or text message to someone who's going through a hard time.
- Look for a community that shares your views or interests. It may also have its own organized social groups.
- Call a food bank or hospital and ask about their volunteer programs.
- Connect with people through social media. Online forums about specific interests can be a good choice for people who can't leave their homes or who prefer a flexible schedule.
Social media and news can help you stay connected, but all that information can be overwhelming. Remember to focus only on what brings you joy and to avoid or limit time on social media or news sites that may make you feel stressed. Reserve time away from apps and TV to do something else you enjoy.
Make relationships a priority, for the sake of your mental and physical wellness.
Copyrighted material adapted with permission from Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor.
