It’s no surprise that mental health concerns are on the rise. Since the coronavirus pandemic, the number of anxiety and depressive disorders grew worldwide by 25-28%. Isolation and loneliness are likely part of the cause.
Social connection is important for our mental health, helping to boost mood, longevity, immunity, and even cognitive function. An article in Forbes magazine states, “Social connection is perhaps THE key factor in well-being.” The writer refers to a famous Harvard study that found “people with stronger social connections were the healthiest and happiest. In fact, social connectivity over a lifetime was the key variable that predicted happiness and longevity.”
Well, okay! Count us in!
But in a society where so many people connect solely through social media (which — news flash!— isn’t really social), the average family size is decreasing, smart phones allow us to pretty much never step into a grocery store or bank, and many of us work remotely, how do we find those social connections?
Try this …
- Step away from the screens. Use your phone to actually call and talk to family members and friends instead of texting or messaging each other.
- Take a walk and chat with neighbors along the way. Connecting with others in person, even on a small scale like waving hello to each other, can boost your mood and create a sense of belonging to your community. And a nice walk will always do some good!
- Sign up for a class at your local rec center, gym, library, or university. A class or workshop that meets regularly puts you in touch with the same group of people over and over, helping you form connections and potential friendships.
- Invite a few friends over to chat and learn something new. When people get together, the “feel good” hormone oxytocin is released, helping to combat the negative effects of stress. And if hosting stresses you out, try hosting a Pure Haven Gathering; your Consultant does all the work, sharing about the problem of toxic ingredients in everyday products and offering easy, non toxic swaps, while you sit back, relax, and earn free and discounted non toxic products that are both safe and effective.
- Become part of something bigger. As the Forbes article mentioned above says, “Relationships can create context for finding purpose and meaning.” Reach out to your Pure Haven Consultant and ask about joining their team. You’ll instantly become part of a group of like-minded people who share our message about toxic ingredients in everyday products with others and help them make healthier product choices for their families. It’s a great way to make a difference.
Talk with your Pure Haven Consultant today about how you can connect with others by sharing the Pure Haven products you know and love and see how it affects your sense of well-being. Let us know by emailing mailto:mystory@purehaven.com.
Sources:
Duszynski-Goodman, L. Mental Health Statistics (2023) – Forbes Health. 9 March 2023.
Troyer, A. K. The Health Benefits of Socializing | Psychology Today. 30 June 2016.
Walton, A. G. 7 Ways Loneliness (And Connectedness) Affect Mental Health (forbes.com). 30 October 2018.