We all know that high blood pressure, smoking, and poor diet represent health risks. As a result, we take measures to bring our blood pressure into a healthy range, we encourage people to stop engaging in behaviors that damage our health, and we encourage a healthy diet. We address these issues because we know they represent health risks. But did you know that social isolation and loneliness also create health risks? It’s true. A lack of social connectedness represents a health risk. In fact, the 2023 report from the U. S. Surgeon General entitled Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation, documents several risk factors related to social isolation. For instance:  

• “Social isolation and loneliness increase the risk of morbidities from” heart disease and stroke.
• Greater social support is associated with a greater reduction in the possibility of developing high blood pressure.
• Social disconnection is associated with an increased risk for the development of type 2 diabetes.
• Decreased social connection is linked with weaker immune response systems.
• Social connection also seems to play a role in accelerating cognitive decline and increased risk of dementia.
• Social isolation also predicts increased risk of developing depression and anxiety. It is “arguably the strongest and most reliable predictor of suicidal ideation, attempts, and lethal suicide.”

As you can see, social connection, or the lack of social connection, represents a key health factor for identifying potential health risks. With that in mind, consider this your prescription for healthy social connections for you and your family. Each of these activities can help build social connections for you and your family.

• Join a community service group such as Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Indian Princesses, or some equivalent. Get involved in an organization like the Boy’s Club or the YMCA.
• Involve your children in local community activities such as a sports’ league, dance troupe, music group, or theatre group.
• Get together with friends for a card night, dinner night, or any other night you might creatively organize.
• Volunteer as a family. This is a wonderful time to connect as a family and to connect with those outside the family while serving.
• Become involved in a local religious community. Such a community provides a wonderful way to connect with a variety of people and activities.
• Get to know your neighbors. Talk when you see them in the yard. Develop a friendship with your neighbor.

Getting involved in social groups now will benefit your health and the health of your children for a lifetime. Why not get involved today?