Just about everyone widely acknowledges the necessity of physical fitness; what is unknown is the necessity of mental wellness, which is often ignored. I hate to break it to you, but if your mental health isn’t in good shape, it’s meaningless no matter how physically fit you are. The same is true in the reverse situation. It is essential to achieve both mental and physical health if you want to be happy and healthy.
But today, it is gaining importance since many countries are now offering integrated mental healthcare services. However, it is preferable to use it as a last option and seek aid without any medicine or therapies first. As a result, today’s post will discuss psychological well-being and how it can be attained with the community’s help.
What is the influence of community on mental health?
Bringing community, or rather, society, into the discussion is necessary since poor mental results from social isolation and the absence of people in one’s life. You might be startled, as well as terrified, to learn that isolation often leads to negative sensations such as the following.
- Depression
- Panic Attacks
- Anxiety
- No/Lesser Empathy
- Numbness
- Lower Self Esteem
- Anti-Social Behavior
- Aggressive Behavior
- Suicidal Thoughts & Even an attempt
Not only can a lack of socialization contribute to behavioral issues, but it also leads to physical health issues such as heart disease, infections, sickness, and inflammation, to mention a few.
On the contrary, if you become socially active, you reach out to others when necessary, express your emotions with those you trust, participate in communal activities and events, and interact as often as possible. All of this, believe me, transforms the aforementioned negative sentiments into pleasant ones. As an example, the following improvements will be noticed, indicating that mental health is in excellent form.
- Less anxiety
- Fewer panic attacks
- Lower depression rates
- No suicidal thoughts
- Increased empathy and trust
- Begins socializing
- Happy hormones are released
- Increased self-esteem
- There are no physical health risks
That is the impact of community and society on your emotional stability. However, let’s see the driving factor behind such an effect.
How does the community influences mental health?
Humans want to be, respected loved, accepted for who they are, supported, and connected. They seek self-assurance and self-worth from others. Below are the three ways community help in making sure that your mental well-being is in good shape.
- Sense of connectedness — There are several communities, and you must find one depending on your interests and preferences. When you discover the ideal or near match, you will experience an instant connection with others who share your values. You will feel as if you belong here and feel at home. You will be cheerful, and your spirits will be uplifted.
- Helpfulness — Everyone goes through highs and lows in their lives. When you are at your best, you have people to celebrate with, but you may find yourself alone when you are at your worst. This might be because you are hesitant to seek help, discuss your nightmares, and therefore end up suffering alone. Reach out to your loved ones for help. You might be reluctant, but they are always available to assist you, listen to you, and support you. If you are afraid of being judged, you can seek assistance through legitimate social media and online groups. In any case, some people are always willing to provide a helping hand.
- Intent — You must be willing to lend a hand to people in need. You must attempt to make people happy. This may be as simple as sewing a cardigan for a friend or as big as helping them in landing a dream job.
This is how joining a community network may assist you massively and change your life for the better. But how do you go about finding the proper one? The following section will also guide you with that.
Creating connections
Several methods for establishing a connection, particularly in the digital era, have enabled worldwide connectivity. You can join online self-help groups, communities, social groups, activist groups, and even make an online friend. Such a relationship gives you a sense of togetherness, makes you feel liked and welcomed.
What else do you need to be mentally fit? Oh, yes, yoga, meditation, and a nice walk. But again, the positive effect of all of this multiplies when done with a company. You learn something new every day, teach others what you know, and build a relationship.
It is preferable to join a group that shares your interests and activities. If you prefer dancing, join a dance crew: if you enjoy golf, join a country club; and if you enjoy reading, how about joining a book club? In this manner, you can follow your passion while also build an emotional bond.
We need support and a sense of safety during life struggles. Joining a community offers those and everything best. But it doesn’t mean you keep on accepting help. You must also provide something in return, such as emotional support.
