July is Social Wellness Month

July marks Social Wellness Month which was created to assist people in their efforts to live a healthier life. Social wellness encompasses the idea of having positive interactions with others since we are all social beings. It involves developing and building close bonds of friendship and intimacy, practicing empathy, and effective listening, and caring for others and for the common good.

Here are 5 key factors in social wellness:

1. Socially isolated people are more susceptible to illness and have a death rate two to three times higher than those who are not socially isolated.

2. People who maintain their social network and support systems are able to manage and cope with stress more effectively.

3. Touching, stroking, and hugging can improve health.

4. Cholesterol levels go up when human companionship is lacking.

5. Warm, close friendships cause higher levels of immunoglobulin A (an antibody that helps keep away respiratory infections and cavities).

Please stay tuned for the next blog on how to assess your own social wellness.

Books related to this topic:

103 Group Activities and Tips

Stress Management for Wellness

104 Activities That Build: Self-Esteem, Teamwork, Communication, Anger Management, Self-Discovery, Coping Skills