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Social connections play an important role in our health and well-being. Social connections are how we feel about the quality of relationships we have with the people around us, like with our family, friends, neighbours, places of worship, communities, workplaces, and more. It provides us with a sense of belonging and helps us feel accepted and valued by others. It can strengthen our sense of self and identity.
Having quality social connections provide us with opportunities to share information, learn about new things, cope with life stresses, and share a laugh. Social connections help us feel like we belong and that we are well supported in our communities. Meaningful social connections help us cope with stress and with life changes, and they encourages us to make healthier choices that can lead to an improved quality of life.
Definition
Social connections refer to the number and quality of relationships we have with the people around us.
Benefits of Social Connections
There are many benefits to having social connections. Overall, it enhances our quality of life. In addition to improving our social health, it can also improve our physiological, cognitive, psychological, emotional, biological, intellectual, and physical health.
Three Important Aspects of Social Connections
Meaningful social connections depends on three aspects: the number of relationships we have, how these relationships meet our needs, and how these relationships impact our well-being. (Source: Why Social Relationships Are Important for Physical Health: A Systems Approach to Understanding and Modifying Risk and Protection).
1. Structure
The number and the variety of social relationships we have and how often we interact with them.
How large is our social network? Is it diverse enough?
2. Function
The purpose our social relationships serve and how they meet our needs.
Do we feel that these relationships are supportive and helpful?
3. Quality
The positive and negative aspects of our relationships and how they impact our well-being.
Do these relationships help us feel included? Do they provide us with a sense of belonging?
Social Connections Overview