Why Relationships Are Important To Your Health
The latest AARP bulletin identifies “loneliness” as a growing epidemic among our elder population. During the holidays, when the emphasis is put so squarely on connecting with family and friends, its important to remember that not all of us are spending time in the safe and warm cocoon of these vital connections. Research on physical and emotional “well being” and longevity strongly points to the importance of human relationships as the glue that holds us all together. This “glue” refers to our friendships, our families, and our most intimate romantic connections. Simply put…humans are “social” creatures from cradle to grave. When we are deprived of close physical and emotional relationships, the body begins to shut down and there is a “failure to thrive” that is evident at a cellular level in humans. Our immune systems are compromised and we may succumb to opportunistic infections and maladies.
What Can Be Done To Combat Isolation in Others and Ourselves?
- The first step is just simple awareness of feeling “alone” and isolated. The definition of “loneliness” does not necessarily mean that you are always lonely when you are alone. The subjective “feeling” of loneliness is much more about feeling disconnected and misunderstood even when you are physically connected to another person. We are familiar with the concept of a “lonely” marriage for example.
- If you find yourself consistently lonely weather or not you have people around you…start researching groups or locations where you might find like-minded people. It could be anything…doesn’t matter. If you’re finding it difficult to find your “tribe”…it might be because you have not spent enough time building a relationship with yourself. Who are you? What do you like? What kinds of activities bring you joy and fulfillment? Begin slowly conversing with people as you engage in activities. It gets easier and easier.
- Are there people from your past who you’ve lost touch with? If so.. Spend some time rediscovering them. In the process. You will rediscover yourself.
- Last but not least…offer yourself up as a volunteer with others who are lonely. Volunteer in a Senior Center or Assisted care facility. You will find it enormously rewarding.
Just remember…its never too late to nurture an active and fulfilling social life. You won’t regret it!