For many, one of the most difficult psychological challenges of dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic has been the loss of social health. In an era when people’s social connections are rapidly changing, it’s more important than ever for people to maintain a strong social health. Socially well-adjusted people live longer and have better health. The more researchers look into it, the stronger the link between good social health and overall happiness. Furthermore, it implies that employees are generally happier, which is always a good thing!
According to a large body of research, strong social ties have been linked to a longer life. Loneliness and social isolation, on the contrary, have been linked to poor health, depression, and an increased risk of dying young. According to research, having a diversified social network can help reduce stress and heart-related risks.
There are numerous advantages to having social connections and having good mental health. Lower anxiety and depression rates, higher self-esteem, greater empathy, and more trusting and cooperative relationships are all proven links. Antisocial behavior, depression, and suicide are all linked to loneliness. Your immune system can be weakened by poor emotional health. This makes you more susceptible to colds and other infections during emotionally trying times. You may not be taking care of your health as you must when you are stressed, anxious, or upset.
Signs of Being Socially Healthy
The benefits of developing and maintaining healthy relationships are limitless, so social wellness is crucial. Socially well-adjusted people have numerous health advantages and may even live longer. The immune system’s ability to fight against infectious diseases can be boosted by maintaining a healthy social life. The signs of being socially healthy include:
- Being easily able to create and maintain friendships
- Creating social boundaries to encourage communication and effective conflict management
- Having a supportive network of family and friends
- Balancing out personal and social time
- Being engaged with other people in the community
- Adapting to any social situation
- Being yourself in all situations
- Treating others with the utmost respect
Poor Social Interactions
According to studies, people who have poor social interactions are more likely to die younger than those with high involvement levels. The following health issues have also been linked to poor social health by researchers:
- Heart attacks
- Chronic diseases
- Mobility issues
- High blood pressure
- Raised stress hormones leading to inflammation
- Cancer
- Poor mental health
- Anxiety & depression
- Poor immune system
Harms of Loneliness
Loneliness can be fatal. Researchers have drawn a parallel between being lonely and smoking 15 cigarettes per day, concluding that both are equally deadly. A lonely person has a 50% higher chance of dying young than someone who has healthy social relationships. Loneliness weakens the immune system and causes inflammation in the body, leading to heart disease and other chronic illnesses. Stress can have a detrimental impact on a person’s health if they don’t have social or emotional support.
Toxic Relations
People evolve as time goes by. You and a good friend may have had a lot in common in high school, but ten years later, you’ve both moved on and don’t enjoy each other’s company as much as you do when you’re with others. Some people change and can hurt their friends, and it takes a family member to point out that a friend is no longer a healthy influence because not everyone can recognize it.
Friendships are meaningful, but they must be healthy ones. A healthy friendship will bring out the best in you and motivate you to accomplish your goals. It’s critical to have friends who can positively influence your life.
Someone who is a bad friend is the one who:
- Is not supportive of your endeavors
- Is very negative about others
- Can not be trusted to keep a secret
- Can not be counted on to help when needed
When a relationship is toxic, it is the most concerning. One may take advantage of the relationship by relying on the other to do things without reciprocating.
In long-term relationships, one partner’s bad temper can exert control over the other. Their partner may give up trying to communicate with them for days because of the angry outbursts, and they feel like they’re ‘walking on eggshells,’ not knowing when the next outburst will occur. Suspicion and jealousy are other forms of control (usually in a long-term relationship). It usually gets worse as the relationship progresses, and the ‘victim’ has less freedom and explains where they are going more often. Other bullies will ridicule a friend or partner in front of others, often dismissing it as a joke, but it’s not a joke when the other person is harmed. A toxic relationship can be detrimental to the sufferers’ physical and mental health.
Advantages of Strong Social Health
Human beings are social creatures. We all crave a sense of belonging and connection. Socialization’s health benefits can significantly improve our lives.
- Mental well-being– Socialization can aid in the improvement of our mental and emotional well-being. Being social reduces depression, according to studies and common sense. Socialization is also beneficial to one’s mental health.
- Self-esteem- People who say they are lonely often have low self-esteem and confidence. Spending time with people you enjoy can help you feel more confident. Being with people we care about makes us feel as if we have a place in the world. Having an outside perspective on ourselves is also beneficial. The affirmation we receive from those we care about boosts our self-esteem and confidence.
- Lower Blood Pressure- Loneliness has been linked to an increase in blood pressure. The longer you are alone, the more these effects compound. The antidote to loneliness is socialization.
The Takeaway
Whatever stage of life you are in, do not take your relationships for granted. Value the relationships you have and try creating healthy new ones. However, in case you have been in a toxic relationship and need proper counseling to break free of the demons, feel free to contact a professional.
Book an appointment now, to answer all your queries. You can book an appointment with the top Psychologists in Pakistan through Marham by calling at Marham helpline: 0311-1222398 or by online booking facility through the website or Marham mobile app.
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FAQs
1. Why is social health beneficial?
The benefits of developing and maintaining healthy relationships are limitless, so social wellness is crucial. People who are socially well-adjusted have numerous health advantages and may even live longer.
2. Is social health necessary for children?
The ability of a child to express and manage emotions is referred to as emotional development. The overall development of children is influenced by their social and emotional health. Those who develop strong social and emotional skills are generally happier, more motivated to learn, and achieve higher academic results.
3. Is social health different than emotional health?
Social well-being improves emotional health. Using healthy communication skills, social well-being entails seeking positive, interdependent relationships.