3 Reasons to Prioritize Your Social Wellness

by | Mar 23, 2022

social wellness

What exactly is social wellness? HIF defines social wellness as: “our ability to interact and form meaningful relationships with others. It also relates to how comfortably we can adapt in social situations. Social relationships have an impact on our mental health, physical health and mortality risk.” Right there lists the three reasons! It manages our mental health, betters our physical health and decreases our mortality risk.

In fact: “Socially isolated individuals are at increased risk for the development of cardiovascular disease (3), infectious illness (4), cognitive deterioration (5), and mortality (6–9). Social isolation also has been associated with elevated blood pressure, C-reactive protein, and fibrinogen (10, 11) and with heightened inflammatory and metabolic responses to stress (12, 13),” (PNAS). The research for this is for older individuals; however, practicing social wellness should start at a young age. 

Benefits Your Mental Health

Forming long lasting and healthy relationships can increase our social wellness by a long shot. Instead of having just work friends or school friends—make a lasting bond with someone! With the pandemic, it can be easier said than done but don’t give up! Surrounding yourself with positive people will keep you positive and will boost your self esteem! 

Physical Health and Social Wellness 

Another great way to socialize and  improve your overall health is to participate in fitness classes. Classes like Zumba, spin, dance, and boot camp classes can help you socialize and get fit at the same time. If you are a college student, you can see if your college gym offers classes or join a club! If you work in the office, see what social and wellness programs are offered. If there is nothing offered yet, bring it up to your HR department or boss. 

Liking this article? Learn about how physical isolation can adversely impact mental health here.

Mortality and Social Wellness 

The Mayo Clinic stated: “Receiving social support from one’s spouse/partner and relatives and maintaining weekly social interaction with 6–7 friends reduced mortality risk. Such data may inform interventions to improve long-term survival.” 6-7 friends might seem like a lot to balance but the BetterYou app helps you stay in touch! With text messages, phone calls, outings, and so on can help you stay in touch and boost your social wellness. Once you take social wellness seriously, the rest will follow.

Social Wellness is Important 

Having social wellness is important to having a long and healthy life. With this, we form long lasting relationships, have a positive attitude in work and home life, live longer, and overall become a better person. Prioritize yourself today and download BetterYou! 

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