Building Connections with Others

Two years ago, the world was shaken to a degree that millions of people had never seen in their lifetime. In a strange way, this pandemic brought everyone closer in terms of shared experience. It simultaneously drove people more apart than ever by creating a deep-rooted fear of being close to anyone. Life is now somewhat back to normal, but nuances remain when it comes to social interaction.

Nowadays, most organizations are offering different working arrangements to their employees: working hybrid, becoming fully remote, or simply going back to the office like before. Everyone can agree that having options is great. However, it is also creating a bigger distance between people. Technology is definitely a good thing that has brought different ways to connect with people, yet people need human connection to feel that they are a part of something bigger than themselves.

When human beings experience low levels of social connection, this can be associated with major declines in physical and psychological health, as well as a higher likelihood of antisocial behaviors. This in turn tends to lead to further isolation. Feeling lonely can have a negative impact on your mental health, in particular, when these feelings have lasted a long time. Isolation is often associated with a heighten risk of developing depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, sleep problems, and increased stress.¹

When you connect with others, you nurture your emotional and physical wellbeing. Having trustworthy relationships and feeling connected to people in your life uplifts your potential to cope with challenges. Individuals who feel a sense of connection to others are less likely to develop depression and anxiety symptoms.² In addition, studies also proclaim that having dependable relationships enhances self-esteem; they lead to people being more empathic, trusting, and cooperative with others, and, as a consequence, others reciprocate.³

Find the time to connect with others.

With this said, have you asked yourself how many times you actually looked and smiled at someone? Now that masks are no longer mandatory, try to go back to some of the key behaviors that allow you to grow human connections. These are some strategies that you can put into practice to build connections with others:

• Volunteering can be a great way to build connections. Try giving your time at a nonprofit organization near you, for example.
• Surround yourself with people with shared interests. Think about things you enjoy doing (reading, hiking, playing chess, yoga, etc.), and try to find a local group that meets regularly for those exact activities. Starting, or simply going back to, this kind of routine interaction is of utmost importance. Not to mention, it is a lovely way to get comfortable being around people again and build connections.
• Support groups may also be a useful first step toward connectedness. Knowing that you aren't alone and that others also have trouble cultivating relationships can enhance your outlook on establishing connections. Remember that support groups are a great way to learn coping strategies and gather suggestions about different ways to connect with others.
• Improve your communication skills. Every time you find yourself engaging in a conversation, make an effort to be present and listen to what the other person has to say. The more you show interest, the more genuine you come across. Ask questions. Show them you are listening and that you care.
• Don't hide away in your phone—everyone knows how easy it is to just turn to your phone whenever you are feeling uncomfortable in a social interaction. However, this can inhibit your ability to be social. When you are out and about, focus on being present; tune in to social cues. Take a chance to engage with others. You will find a lot about not only yourself but others too.

Important note: If joining a group or randomly starting a chat with someone you don't know gives you severe anxiety, consider reaching out to a mental health professional. They can work with you on developing strategies that may help you manage your emotional responses to some of the triggering thoughts and/or circumstances.

Bear in mind that not everyone needs to connect socially in the same way. If you're more of an introvert, hanging out with a group of people may not be what works for you. Try to find a way to connect that matches your personality and distinctive lifestyle. Everyone is built differently, and that is the magic of being human.

It's never too late to engage in human connection. The benefits are great and can have a long-lasting impact on your mood and prevent more serious mental health concerns.⁴

References

1. Seppala, M. (2014, May 8). Connectedness & health: The science of social connection. Retrieved July 29, 2022, from Stanford Medicine, The Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education: Link opens in a new windowhttp://ccare.stanford.edu/uncategorized/connectedness-health-the-science-of-social-connection-infographic
2. Better Health Channel. (2022, February 24). Strong relationships, strong health. Retrieved July 29, 2022, from Link opens in a new windowhttps://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/Strong-relationships-strong-health
3. Seabrook, E.M., Kern M.L., & Richard, N.S. (2016, November 23). Social networking sites, depression, and anxiety: A systematic review. Journal of Medical Internet Research (JMIR) Mental Health, 3(4), e50. doi: 10.2196/mental.5842
4. Mental Health America. (2022). How connections help. Retrieved July 29, 2022, from Link opens in a new windowhttps://www.mhanational.org/connect-others

Other Sources

Giuntella, O., Hyde K., Saccardo S., & Sadoff, S. (2021, February 10). Lifestyle and mental health disruptions during COVID-19. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 118(9), e2016632118. doi: 10.1073/pnas.2016632118

Thorp, T. (2020, March 16). 10 ways to deepen your connections with others. Retrieved July 29, 2022, from Chopra: Link opens in a new windowhttps://chopra.com/articles/10-ways-to-deepen-your-connections-with-others