Your Social Health

 

Social health refers to our ability to form meaningful relationships, adapt in social situations, and balance personal and social time. It profoundly impacts mental and physical health. Indicators of social health include assertive communication, community engagement, adaptability, respect for others, friendship skills, setting boundaries, having supportive networks, and enjoying life. It's a vital component of overall well-being . 

Importance of Social Health:

Social health and wellness play a critical role in our overall well-being. According to the Australian Government, "social relationships are protective of mental health." Our daily interactions with people significantly impact our mental and physical health. Maintaining a high level of social wellness allows us to cultivate interpersonal relationships across various domains, including friendships, intimate relationships, platonic connections, family ties, and professional interactions.

Studies have revealed that individuals with limited social engagement are more likely to experience premature mortality compared to those with robust social connections. Additionally, researchers have linked various health issues to poor social health, including heart attacks, chronic diseases, mobility limitations, high blood pressure, heightened stress hormones leading to inflammation, cancer, mental health challenges like anxiety and depression, and a compromised immune system.

Measuring Social Health & Wellness:

Evaluating our social health begins with self-reflection and an assessment of our relationships. We can start by examining the signs of good social health and determining whether they apply to our lives.

Indicators of good social health encompass:

1. Balanced Social and Personal Time: Striking a harmonious equilibrium between time spent with others and personal time dedicated to self-care.

2. Authenticity: Being genuine and true to oneself in all situations and interactions.

3. Community Engagement: Actively participating in community activities and engaging with fellow community members.

4. Respectful Interactions: Treating others with respect, empathy, and courtesy.

5. Strong Relationships: Building and maintaining robust friendships and social networks.

6. Healthy Boundaries: Establishing clear boundaries that enhance communication, trust, and effective conflict management.

7. Social Support: Turning to friends and family for emotional support during challenging times.

8. Effective Communication: Demonstrating effective communication skills in our interactions.

Social health is a fundamental component of our overall health and well-being, significantly influencing both our mental and physical health. It is essential to assess and cultivate good social health by considering these signs and actively working toward fostering positive relationships and connections in our lives. 

Rethinking Well-Being Beyond GDP:

Western countries are now acknowledging that assessing the life satisfaction of their citizens is as crucial as measuring economic prosperity through Gross National Product (GDP). The recognition is that a nation's economic success loses meaning if its citizens are unhappy. To comprehend a nation's well-being more comprehensively, multi-dimensional measures are being utilized.

Measuring Well-Being:

Some governments have incorporated questions about subjective well-being into national surveys. A single question wasn't enough to gauge accurately, so surveys now inquire about various aspects, including:

1. Overall Life Satisfaction: "Overall, how satisfied are you with your life nowadays?"

2. Daily Happiness: "Overall, how happy did you feel yesterday?"

3. Loneliness: "Overall, did you feel lonely yesterday?"

4. Sense of Worth: "Overall, to what extent do you feel the things you do in your life are worthwhile?"

These responses provide policymakers with insights into their citizens' well-being, helping shape policies aimed at enhancing social health and overall welfare.

The Loneliness Challenge:

Loneliness carries significant health risks. Research has equated loneliness to smoking 15 cigarettes per day, emphasizing their equally detrimental effects. Lonely individuals face a 50% higher risk of premature death compared to those with robust social connections. Loneliness can weaken the immune system, trigger inflammation leading to conditions like heart disease, and exacerbate the impact of stress on health.

In the UK, 15-20% of adults describe themselves as 'often or always lonely.' Recognizing the magnitude of this issue, the UK government has introduced a Minister for Loneliness. The most effective strategy to combat loneliness is to foster new connections and friendships throughout one's life. Building social and emotional support networks is essential for mitigating the adverse health consequences of loneliness. 

The Dark Side of Social Relationships:

Regrettably, not all relationships are nurturing and healthy. While relationships typically serve as a source of emotional support, they can occasionally become exceedingly stressful.

Constant Change:

People evolve over time, which can affect friendships. You might have shared a deep connection with a close friend during high school, but a decade later, both of you have moved in different directions, and your camaraderie has waned. Sometimes, individuals undergo changes that make them a negative influence on friends. Identifying when a friend is no longer a positive presence may require the perspective of a family member.

The Importance of Positive Friendships:

Having friends is essential, but the quality of those friendships matters significantly. A healthy friendship should inspire and uplift you, propelling you towards your goals and aspirations. It's crucial to surround yourself with friends who have a positive impact on your life.

Identifying a Poor Friend:

A problematic friend may exhibit traits such as:

1. Lack of Support: They don't support your endeavors or ambitions.

2. Negativity: They habitually speak negatively about others.

3. Lack of Trustworthiness: They can't be relied upon to keep confidences.

4. Unreliability: They are inconsistent in providing assistance when needed.

Toxic Relationships:

The most concerning scenario is when a relationship turns toxic. In such cases, one person may exploit the relationship, using the other for their benefit without reciprocating. In long-term relationships, one partner may exert control through fits of anger, causing the other to withdraw from communication, creating an environment of tension and unpredictability. Another form of control involves suspicion and jealousy, which often intensify as the relationship progresses, leading to increased restrictions and scrutiny. Some individuals may belittle their friends or partners in public, disguising hurtful behavior as jokes. However, such actions can inflict physical and mental harm on the other person's health.

While social relationships are a vital part of our lives, it's crucial to recognize when they become unhealthy or toxic, as they can have detrimental effects on both physical and mental well-being. 

Example 1 - Positive Transformation:

Sarah, 37, endured a decade-long unhappy marriage that took a toll on her physical and mental health. Research indicates that the negative impact of marital strain on health intensifies with age, causing cumulative wear and tear on physiological systems. Seeking a change, Sarah separated from her husband and moved to a new house. This fresh start allowed her to meet new people, enjoy the company of friends, shed excess weight from emotional eating, and find happiness in a new relationship. Her experience underscores the significance of positive social connections in improving well-being.

Example 2 - From Isolation to Connection:

Michael, 28, transitioned from living with his parents to solitary living while working full-time. His isolated lifestyle, marked by limited social interaction and heavy online gaming, led to loneliness and excessive alcohol consumption, adversely affecting his mental and physical health. However, Michael's life took a positive turn when he met a girlfriend. Their companionship and social activities rekindled his sense of connection and happiness, emphasizing the importance of supportive relationships in enhancing overall health.

Example 3 - Thriving in Social Connections:

David, a 65-year-old married man, enjoys a robust social health. He shares his life with a wife of 40 years, cares for grandchildren, and maintains strong ties with friends, both through community activities like Men's Shed and recreational pursuits like golf. David's multifaceted social connections with family and friends contribute to his excellent social well-being.

Example 4 - Isolation's Toll:

John, an 80-year-old widower, leads a solitary life with minimal social interactions. The loss of his wife, the absence of local friends, and limited contact with his overseas son have left John isolated and depressed. His sedentary lifestyle and lack of engagement have taken a toll on his physical health, leading to rapid deterioration. John's situation serves as a stark reminder of the detrimental impact of social isolation on both mental and physical well-being. 

Improving your social wellness is a comprehensive process that involves various aspects of your life, and it's all about creating and nurturing meaningful connections while also taking care of your overall well-being.

1. Self-Care: It all starts with taking care of yourself both physically and mentally. This means making sure you get enough sleep, maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and learning how to manage stress effectively. When you're in good physical and mental shape, you'll find it easier to connect with others.

2. Building and Maintaining Friendships: A crucial part of social wellness is your ability to establish and sustain friendships. Begin with small talk, engaging in simple conversations about shared interests, hobbies, or everyday topics. Make an effort to listen actively to others, and use these common interests as a foundation for deeper conversations. Don't forget about your existing friends; regular communication, whether through calls, texts, or social media, demonstrates your care and commitment to these relationships. Plan gatherings, even if they're as simple as meeting for coffee, to maintain strong connections.

3. Exploring Community Groups: Broadening your social circle can be achieved by participating in community groups or organizations that align with your interests. Whether it's volunteering, joining hobby clubs, or attending local events, these activities offer opportunities to meet new people who share your passions. Common interests serve as a solid basis for forging new relationships.

4. Utilizing Exercise for Social Interaction: Physical activity can be a valuable means of social engagement. Whether you opt for a gym membership or frequent a nearby park, these settings often lead to regular interactions with familiar faces. Even brief conversations or friendly greetings can evolve into significant connections over time.

By intentionally integrating these strategies into your life, you can boost your social well-being and overall quality of life. Social wellness is an ongoing journey, and it can positively impact your life at any age or stage. It's never too late to enhance your social health. 

By Andrew Anongu, DailyHealth.