Health is often about diet, exercise and sleep. But a crucial factor in our overall well-being is our social relationships. Too often, they are not prioritized when appointments are scheduled. Nevertheless, strong friendships and good communities contribute significantly to social well-being and quality of life.
When we talk about health, it is important to remember the value that social capital and good relationships add to our lives. Having people to share thoughts, feelings, and experiences with provides a sense of community and social support. This is just as important a part of health as eating healthy or exercising.
Our social life and relationships
Having strong, healthy relationships can be just as important to our well-being as eating healthy and exercising. In fact, research shows that people with good social relationships live longer, have better mental health, and generally feel happier. At the same time, the lack of close relationships is a factor that can exacerbate loneliness, a feeling that can potentially have negative health consequences.
Relationships and mental health
Our relationships play a crucial role, including for our mental health. Good friendships and close relationships give us a sense of belonging and security. They help us manage stress, bring us joy and can even reduce the risk of depression and anxiety. When we share our thoughts and feelings with others, we create a sense of togetherness, which is so important for our well-being. This togetherness is supported by empathy and communication skills, which strengthen the bond between people.
Social ties and physical health
It's not just our mental health that is affected by our social lives – our physical health also benefits from strong relationships. Studies show that loneliness can have just as harmful consequences as smoking or being physically inactive. People with strong social networks have lower blood pressure, stronger immune systems and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. By cultivating network building and engaging in communities, you achieve increased relationship competence, which in the long term can positively affect your overall health.
Time, communities and prioritization
It's about prioritizing. No matter how busy your calendar is, prioritize time with those you care about. Whether it's regular appointments or more spontaneous meetings, it's crucial to make room for presence and social support. Being part of communities of interest such as sports, book clubs, creative groups, or volunteering is a great way to expand your network while boosting social well-being.
Be present when you are there.
When you are with others, put your phone away and be present in the moment. Good communication skills and genuine empathy create deeper bonds and a sense of community. Listen actively, be open yourself, and show interest in those you are with and what you are together about. In this way, you also build your relationship competence – the ability to understand, develop, and maintain healthy relationships.
Oscar Wilde is relevant today with his quote:
“A good friend is a connection to life – a bond to the past, a path to the future, a key to sanity in an insane world.”
Friendships and relationships are vitamins on par with diet, exercise, and sleep. By investing in our social well-being, we can improve our overall quality of life. Get out your calendar – schedule time for those who fill your life with joy and presence. You will discover that this investment in social capital is at least as important as prioritizing exercise or a healthy diet.
STAI v/Jytte Bille, lifestyle guide
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