[Social health](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/mental-health-and-culture) is one of the most underrated pillars of well-being. 

We often hear discussions about maintaining our physical health with exercise. Or maintaining our [mental health with therapy](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/workplace-mental-health-culture/mental-health-in-the-workplace). 

But what about our social health? What does it even mean to be socially healthy? And what happens when we have poor social wellness? That’s what we’re here to answer. 

It turns out that our ability to connect with others and cultivate meaningful social relationships holds greater significance than we may realize. In fact, it is an essential ingredient for both our overall quality of life and even our longevity. 

By [leveraging resources like online group therapy](link) and [promoting autonomy in the workplace](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/autonomy-in-the-workplace), individuals can enhance their social connections, fostering a sense of belonging, [support, and well-being](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/mental-health-at-work). 

Let’s break down what social health is, what it provides us, and what it looks like in action. Then we’ll share some powerful examples of how you can [connect with others to transform your social well-being](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/trust-building-exercises).

## What is Social Health?
So what is social health? **It refers to the ability to interact with others in a positive way, form healthy relationships, and build enriching support networks.**

Your relationships with coworkers, family, friends, partners, and community members have a major [impact on your general health](https://health.gov/healthypeople/objectives-and-data/browse-objectives/social-and-community-context). Because of this, social health is one of the key components of overall well-being, along with physical and mental health. 

Fostering friendship and connection may sound simple. But having strong social wellness can be challenging for many people. 

There are various barriers to a healthy social life, like [mental disorders](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/what-is-mental-fitness), older age, health conditions, and abusive relationships. 

### Why is Social Health Important?
The world seems to be moving faster and faster these days. That’s why it’s more important than ever to anchor ourselves to a [strong network of people who support our success](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/trust-building-exercises). 

There are so many reasons why social wellness is essential to our overall health. The greatest benefits of a healthy social life include: 

- Reduced stress 
- [Improved mental health and social anxiety](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/ways-to-motivate-employees)
- Prolonged lifespan by reducing risk factors of all-cause mortality
- Protection against chronic diseases
- Less loneliness
- Greater life satisfaction and fulfillment

It may be surprising to find out that social wellness can actually protect us against all-cause mortality, and keep us [physically healthy and mentally storng](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/mental-health-in-the-workplace). This has to do with the impacts of loneliness and isolation on the body.

#### Loneliness & The Physical Effects of Poor Social Wellness
One of the most fascinating research findings on loneliness is that social isolation greatly increases a person’s risk of [all-cause mortality](https://cdc.gov/aging/publications/features/lonely-older-adults.html#:~:text=Health%20Risks%20of%20Loneliness&text=Recent%20studies%20found%20that%3A,%2C%20obesity%2C%20and%20physical%20inactivity.&text=1-,Social%20isolation%20was%20associated%20with,50%25%20increased%20risk%20of%20dementia.), or an early death. 

Chronic loneliness can also increase one’s risk of heart disease and stroke. It is also associated with a roughly 50% increased risk of dementia. 

These [same studies](https://nap.nationalacademies.org/catalog/25663/social-isolation-and-loneliness-in-older-adults-opportunities-for-the) also reveal that poor social relationships are also connected to higher rates of suicide, depression, and anxiety.

The evidence doesn’t lie: we are hardwired for healthy, strong social connections. When we are isolated from other human beings, our bodies and minds are harmed.

### Signs and Examples of Social Health
Do you struggle with your relationships, or creating new connections? It might be tough to imagine social wellness in action. Here are some tell-tale signs and examples of social health:

- Ability to develop new friendships and relationships
- Turning to your social network of friends and family for support
- Engagement with your local community
- A strong support network of family and friends
- Participation in fun social events
- Respectful treatment of others
- Ability to feel confident and be your true self
- Adaptability in various social situations
- [A healthy balance of work/personal and social time](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/healthy-work-environment)
- Healthy boundaries and conflict management strategies
- [Effective communication with others](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/strategies-for-building-resilience)

## How to Improve Your Social Health: Tips for Connecting with Others

Now you know what social well-being is, and why it’s so important for well-being. So let’s talk about ways that you can improve your social wellness. By forging social connections and support networks, people can enjoy an enriching, high-quality life.

Thriving social well-being is not a one-and-done achievement. It is a gradual journey, one that requires patience and a [change in habits and behaviors](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/work-life-balance-for-employees). Go easy on yourself, and have fun with the process!

### Make Friends & Deepen Existing Relationships
Friendship is one of the most powerful forms of social connection. While romantic relationships are often touted as the core of one’s social life, friendships are equally important. 

They make up an extensive web of support to catch you when you fall. They bring a variety of perspectives, experiences, and aptitudes to the table. 

Do you feel like you don’t have quality friendships you can rely on? This is where you should focus your efforts. Building a strong friendship network is a twofold process: create new friendships, and invest in existing friendships. 

**To make new friendships**, put yourself in spaces where others are likely to share your values. If you love books, strike up a conversation at a bookstore. Or if you love working with children, volunteer at your local kids’ after school club and meet other volunteers. 

**Investing in your current friendships** is also crucial. Just like a healthy plant, friendships require regular watering and sunlight to thrive. 

Is there an acquaintance in your life that has a great influence on you? Would you love to be closer to them? Reach out and invite them to coffee, or just check in with them over the phone.  

### Join a Community Or Group Activity
Being a member of a healthy, well-connected community can accelerate your social well-being. There’s no better way to foster deeper social connections than by joining a community based on shared values. 

That’s why Kaya believes in shared experiences and community as a key pillar of a thriving workplace culture. 

[Read Our 2023 Ultimate Workplace Mental Health Guide – Time to Transform Your Workplace Culture!
](https://571ciyfipax.typeform.com/kayamhguide)

Groups that meet regularly and bond over collaboration and vulnerability is an ideal space for building a social network. 

The consistency of this option makes it especially powerful for those with social anxiety. If you struggle to make new friends fast at one-off social events, this may be for you.

Want some ideas for what communities or groups to join? 

- A weekly art class
- A yoga, pilates, or spin class
- A running, biking, or hiking group
- A team of community volunteers
- A church or spiritual center 
- A monthly open mic night
- A poetry or fiction writing group
- A book club
- Community rec sports club

### Try Group Therapy for Social Skills And Connection
We shouldn’t beat ourselves up if our social wellness isn’t where we’d like it to be. It’s common to experience loneliness, [social anxiety, and toxic relationships at some point in our lives](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/anxiety-in-the-workplace). 

That’s why leaning on the support of a mental health professional can be an effective way to boost our social well-being. Many [licensed mental health clinicians](https://www.joinkaya.com/for-clinicians) are trained to assist with these struggles.  


It’s good to first identify what challenges you’re having in your social life. Is it an issue of social anxiety or not knowing how to make friends? An abusive relationship? A health condition that’s isolating you from others? 

This will help you inform what type of therapy is right for you. There are couples and relationships counselors, and therapists specialized in social anxiety and social skills building.

Group therapy might be a great choice for those who want regular interactions with the same people. And online therapy might be ideal for those whose social phobia stops them from connecting in-person.

[Want to Learn About Kaya Mental Health Support for Employees? Request a Demo Here](https://571ciyfipax.typeform.com/to/m47o92UL)

### Improve your Communication Skills
A huge part of social wellness and connecting with others is in our ability to communicate effectively. If our communication skills are lacking, we may never forge the new friendships we desire. 

Remember, just because you’re struggling to communicate with strangers doesn’t mean you’re not worthy of deep, valuable social connections. 

Much of communication is non-verbal, but some also happens through the words we use. When interacting with others, we want to communicate that we’re open, trustworthy, curious, and caring. This makes others want to be around us, and get to know more about us. 

Here are some useful tips to instantly improve your communication skills: 

- **Keep your body language open and fluid**. Uncross your arms, stand tall with your shoulders back. Unlock your tense jaw or joints. A relaxed body communicates a gentle assertiveness, and an openness to feedback.

- **Make regular eye contact**. Try not to stare for too long, but don’t keep looking around the room. Flighty eye contact communicates that you’re not engaged with them.

- **Be an active listener by asking authentic questions**, and getting curious about what they’re saying. Also offer physical cues that you’re following their words, like nods or affirming words.

- **Speak with patience and kindness**. Rushing through your words demonstrates a lack of confidence. And cutting someone off or talking over their words can come across as rude and insensitive. 

## Conclusion
Here’s the bottom line: social health is an essential component of a healthy, thriving life. 

As humans, we’re hardwired for [strong social connections and support networks](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/strategies-for-building-resilience). We need healthy and meaningful relationships for our physical health, mental health, and a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment. 

Social connections combat the health impacts of loneliness, and can significantly improve our mental health. 

Want to connect more with others? Seek out fun social events and strike up conversations with strangers. Invest time in deepening your current [relationships with friends, coworkers, and family](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/toxic-work-culture). 

Join a group community based on a value you all share. Even consider starting therapy that can teach you the skills you need to [improve your social wellness](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/wellness-programs-at-work). 

## [Join Kaya](https://www.joinkaya.com/resources): The Future of Workplace [Mental Health Culture](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/mental-health-at-work)
Looking to find a powerful mental health service for your workplace? Consider Kaya Care, a flexible, affordable, inclusive workplace [mental health support platform](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/group-counseling). 

[Kaya’s](https://www.joinkaya.com/home) licensed clinicians offer support sessions for employees in a group setting based on shared experiences. Our expert team has a combined 50 years of professional experience. 

Let’s discuss how we can best support your employees’ well-being. Connect with our team today and [schedule a demo](https://www.joinkaya.com/home#). 

[Offer Your Team Clinical Mental Health Support - Request A Kaya Demo
](https://571ciyfipax.typeform.com/to/m47o92UL)

## FAQs

### [Is social health the same as emotional health](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/what-is-mental-fitness)?
While social health and emotional health are intimately linked, [especially in young children](https://info.childcareaware.org/blog/social-emotional-health#:~:text=What%20is%20it%20and%20why,of%20development%20are%20intricately%20linked.), they are not the same thing. 

Social health is the ability to make and maintain healthy relationships and social connections. 

Emotional health is the ability to effectively communicate, express, and regulate one’s emotions.

### What is social health insurance?
Based on risk pooling, a [Social Health Insurance system](https://socialprotection.org/learn/glossary/social-health-insurance#:~:text=Share,the%20government%20on%20the%20other.) is a form of managing health care. It pools the contributions of households, enterprises, and the government and the [health risks](https://www.joinkaya.com/blogs/dealing-with-work-stress) of a group of people. 

This takes some of the financial burden off individuals who need health care. US Social Security is an example.  

### What are social health determinants?
The US Department of Health and Human Services defines five domains or factors that [determine our overall health](https://health.gov/healthypeople/priority-areas/social-determinants-health): 

- Economic stability
- Education access and quality
- Health care access and quality
- Neighborhood and built environment
- Social and community context

Craving more connections? Social health is a crucial pillar of well-being. Find out how to connect with others and transform your social health.


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Social Health: How to Connect With Others and Improve Your Quality of Life