Have you ever noticed how a coffee date with a friend can turn your whole day around? Or how the isolation of the pandemic affected your mood? There's a reason behind that. July is Social Wellness Month, a time to highlight something we therapists see often: human connection is vital to mental health. In this blog, I’ll explore why relationships—whether with friends, family, or your community—are crucial to our well-being and share tips on how to create a healthier social life, even if you're introverted or dealing with social anxiety.
We’re Wired for Connection
From the moment we’re born, we seek connection. Humans are social creatures; we’re not meant to go it alone. Healthy relationships offer emotional support, practical help, and a sense of belonging. Research shows that people with strong social ties are not only healthier but live longer. In fact, loneliness and social isolation can have the same impact on mortality as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, according to some studies. On the flip side, good social support helps us cope with stress and even strengthens our immune system. Mental and physical health are deeply connected.
Quality Over Quantity
Social wellness isn’t about having hundreds of friends or being the life of the party. It’s about the quality of your relationships. You might only have a few close friends or family members, but if those connections are deep and supportive, that’s enough. Conversely, someone surrounded by many people can still feel lonely if those relationships lack depth. So, think about the people who lift you up and make you feel at home—that’s what matters most.
Social Media vs. Real Life
In today’s digital age, many of us (myself included) keep in touch with friends through social media. While these tools are great for staying connected with long-distance loved ones, remember that liking a post isn’t the same as having a meaningful conversation. If you find yourself scrolling through feeds and still feeling lonely, it might be time to connect more personally. Maybe schedule a video call or, even better, meet up in person. Use social media to enhance relationships, not replace them.
Overcoming Barriers
If you're shy, introverted, or dealing with social anxiety, socializing might feel overwhelming. Start small. You don’t have to dive into big events or loud parties. Try joining a small group, like a book club or a class. Regular activities like a weekly fitness class or volunteer shift can help build familiarity with others. If you’re nervous, take an “anchor” with you, like a friend, to ease the pressure. Gradual exposure can help too—therapy can offer tailored strategies to help you work through social anxiety.
Nurturing Existing Relationships
Social wellness is also about nurturing the relationships you already have. Life gets busy, but with a little effort, you can keep those connections strong. Set regular check-ins, like a Sunday phone call with a family member or a coffee date with a friend. Tell people you appreciate them. It may feel awkward at first, but trust me—it strengthens bonds. And if there’s tension, address it head-on. Clearing the air prevents resentment from building. Lastly, when you’re with someone, really be present. Quality time is more important than quantity.
The Trap of Toxic Relationships
It’s not just about adding positive relationships; it’s also about recognizing when some connections may be doing more harm than good. If someone constantly drains you or disrespects your boundaries, it may be time to distance yourself. Sometimes, protecting your mental health means letting go of toxic relationships. It can be tough, but think of it as making space for healthier ones.
Community and Belonging
Beyond friends and family, being part of a community can significantly improve mental health. Whether it’s your neighborhood, a faith group, or even an online support group, feeling connected to others who share similar experiences helps combat isolation. Just knowing that “there are others like me” can be incredibly comforting. Many group therapy participants say that the most healing part of the experience was simply not feeling alone.
Action Steps
To celebrate Social Wellness Month, here’s a challenge for you:
Reach out to someone you’ve been meaning to catch up with this week.
Try one new social activity this month—whether it’s attending an event or simply introducing yourself to a neighbor.
Give a genuine compliment or thank someone in your life this week.
If you’re feeling isolated, consider therapy. It’s not just for big issues—it can help you build social skills, work through trust issues, or boost your confidence to connect with others.
As the saying goes, “No man (or woman) is an island.” Social connections not only enrich our lives but help us handle stress and find meaning. Yes, relationships require effort, and people can be complicated. But the rewards—laughter, love, support—are well worth it. As a therapist, I often see clients using coping tools, but it’s their friends and family who walk with them in daily life that make the real difference.
So, this Social Wellness Month, let’s celebrate the friendships we have, work on the ones that need mending, and be open to new connections. Your mental health will thank you—and you might just brighten someone else’s day in the process.
Remember, you don’t have to go it alone. Community and connection are out there, and if you’re not sure where to start, therapy can be a safe place to explore how to build the support system you deserve. 🤗
Blog written by:
Lisa Anderson
Owner of A Healing Place