We can do simple things like reaching out and checking on one another. There is power in a simple check-in with a friend to let them know you’re thinking about them.
Strengthen Mental Health and Community Bonds
My wish for each of you this Holiday season is that you are filled with peace, joy, and a true sense of connectivity. And a challenge to address how we can strengthen mental health and community bonds, this holiday.
While for many these are likely easily attainable, for many others in our community, they are more elusive. In fact, for many among us the basic needs of life – food, water, clothing, sleep, and shelter are at times unattainable, which then often leads to a lack of connectiveness.
I recently was reminded just how important connectivity is during a meeting where a school administrator shared how fragile many of the lives of his students really are. It was disheartening to hear him say that for these students the holiday breaks are not a vacation, but instead a source of dread. For these students, there is the uncertainty of what being at home for an entire break will be like. Will there be enough food for everyone? Will everyone get along, or will there be intermittent episodes of violence?
In talking about the students, the administrator also conveyed how critical community working in partnership with the schools is for all students. To be successful, we need to strengthen mental health and community bonds for students.
Each of us wants to feel cared about and connected to others, which is why, always and especially in this holiday season, it is that much more important for us to connect with others. Not only will it reduce violence, staying connected with others is deeply beneficial to our health in the following ways:
- Better mental health – lower depression, insomnia, and cognitive decline
- Longevity and higher quality of life: Social isolation can increase chances of death by 50%, and has been associated with obesity, stroke, heart disease and smoking.
- Increased fulfilment / contentment: Whatever form our interaction takes (yes, even if virtual, a phone call, etc.)
We can do simple things like reaching out and checking on one another. There is power in a simple check-in with a friend to let them know you’re thinking about them. It is also important for each of us to ask for help, even when it is hard to ask. This can then be reciprocated later when you see someone in need and are able to offer them help. And it is important to find ways to be responsive and grateful to others.
In addition, as an adult who interacts with children, encourage them to have healthy social connections and relationships that are diverse, safe, and stable. Adults also need to have conversations with children and teens about negative influences or stresses such as peer pressure, rejection or not belonging.
So that each of us in Grant County can have our basic needs met, as well as feel socially connected to one another this holiday season, I would challenge you to find ways to strengthen mental health and community bonds. And at Hands of Hope, advocates will continue to focus on empowering choice and cultivating hope for clients.
For more information about Hands of Hope and the care we provide please visit our Website – Hands of Hope – Radiant Health
If you are ever in need or need advice on how to help someone in need – call our 24-Hour Helpline (765) 664-0701
