Turning the Tide: The importance of social connection for physical and emotional health (1)
If you are feeling socially isolated and friendless, you are not alone. But there is something you can do to change that situation.
One of the greatest threats of the Covid-19 pandemic is its effect on social connections.
Humans are social creatures and our well-being is dependent upon face-to-face communication, touch, hugs, and positive body language. I can’t imagine how we would have survived this disruption if it had not been for modern communication technology which at least allows us to video call loved one anywhere in the world.
As a child I grew up in rural Tanzania, and letters from my grandmother took weeks to arrive. Today I can communicate with my family in Norway visually in real time, any time.
Of necessity our senior citizens have taken the brunt of separation, particularly as they have been the most vulnerable to severe complications. Cut off from frequent interaction, and sometimes not very tech-savvy, their mental health has suffered greatly from loneliness and loss of purpose.
ALSO READ: Turning the Tide: Lifestyle medicine building Covid-19 defences
This article from Stanford University called “Connectedness and Health: the Science of social connection” presents a number of important points.
Here is the link to the article: https://stanford.io/3yLZKt6
Lack of social connection is a greater detriment to health than obesity, smoking and high blood pressure. Who would have thought that relationships have such a profound effect on our physical well-being. Stating it in another way, strong social connection:
- leads to 50% increased chance of longevity
- strengthens our immune system – genes impacted by loneliness also code for immune function and inflammation
- speeds recovery from disease
- it may increase longevity
Social connectedness generates a positive feedback loop of social, emotional and physical well-being.
Studies have shown that in the US, the number of people who report social isolation and lack of connectedness has risen sharply. In fact already back in 2004, 25% of Americans said they have no one to confide in – they have no one they call a close friend.
If you are feeling socially isolated and friendless, you are not alone. But there is something you can do to change that situation.
Next week we will explore practical ways to improve social connectedness.
Until then, think of people who you can help who may be feeling isolated or friendless, or reach out to someone if you are feeling that way.
Dave Glass MBChB, FCOG(SA), DipIBLM
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