Connection: The Basis of Wellbeing
In today’s world we are more connected than ever before in human history, it’s ironic that loneliness is at an all-time high. We can reach out to anyone, anywhere, with a few taps on our phones, yet so many of us feel disconnected, isolated, and alone. This paradox is contributing to a mental health crisis that’s sweeping across the globe. The truth is, true connection—authentic, meaningful connection—is essential to our wellbeing and mental health.
Research shows that loneliness is a serious issue. In a recent study, 36% of all Americans—including 61% of young adults—reported feeling “serious loneliness” (Harvard, 2021). Meanwhile, another study found that lacking strong relationships increases the risk of premature death by up to 50%—a risk comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day (Holt-Lunstad, 2010). Clearly, connection isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s crucial for our survival and happiness.
How to combat loneliness and boost mental health?
So, what does it really mean to be “connected”? It turns out, there’s more to connection than just our relationships with others. To truly thrive, we need to cultivate three types of connections: with ourselves, with others, and with the world around us.
1. Connection with Yourself: The Starting Point
When we talk about connection, the first thing that usually comes to mind is our relationships with other people. But before we can truly and deeply connect with others, we need to be able to connect with ourselves. This means knowing who we are, understanding our values, and accepting ourselves—flaws and all.
Self-connection is about tuning into your inner world. It’s taking the time to understand your thoughts, emotions, and needs. When we connect with ourselves, we lay the groundwork for all other connections in our lives.
What can you do to connect more with yourself?
Reflect regularly: Take time each day to reflect on your feelings and thoughts. Journaling can be a powerful tool for this.
Practice self-compassion: Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer to a friend.
Ask yourself meaningful questions: What are my core values? What brings me joy? What do I need to feel fulfilled?
Engage in mindfulness: Practices like meditation and deep breathing can help you become more aware of your inner self.
2. Connection with Others: The Power of Relationships
As humans, we are inherently social creatures. We’ve relied on each other for survival since the dawn of time, and our need for connection hasn’t changed. Building and maintaining meaningful relationships is key to our emotional and physical wellbeing. The quality and kind of relationship are important, you should focus on reciprocal relationships in which both parties are contributing and growing.
How can you build more meaningful relationships?
Be present and listen actively: Leave your phone be, make eye contact, and truly listen when you’re having a conversation.
Show vulnerability: Open up to others about your thoughts and feelings as this creates a deeper bond and encourages others to do the same.
Practice gratitude: Regularly express appreciation for the people in your life.
Engage in shared experiences: Whether it’s a meal, a walk, or a hobby, shared activities can strengthen your connection with others.
3. Connection with the World: Finding Your Place
Finally, there’s our connection with the world around us. This isn’t just about nature—though that’s certainly a part of it—but about how we relate to the world as a whole. Do you see the world as a good place, full of possibilities, or do you view it as something to be feared or fought against?
How we perceive the world shapes our experiences in it. If we see the world as hostile, we’re likely to feel more anxious and disconnected. But if we see it as supportive and full of opportunities, we’re more likely to engage with it in meaningful ways.
How can you connect more deeply with the world around you?
Be present: Notice the small details in your environment—the way the light filters through the trees, the sound of birds chirping, the feel of the ground beneath your feet.
Focus on the good: “Energy flows where attention goes.” Choose to focus on the positive aspects of the world around you.
Engage with your community: Get involved in local events or causes that matter to you. This can help you feel more connected and give you purpose.
Bringing It All Together
In today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world, true connection can feel elusive. But by nurturing connections with ourselves, with others, and with the world around us, we can create a foundation of wellbeing that supports us through life’s challenges. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it. Because at the end of the day, connection isn’t just about avoiding loneliness—it’s about thriving. And that’s something we all deserve.