Fighting loneliness: How regular social contact can protect your mental health, tips to stay connected

Health benefits of pets: Having a pet can provide companionship, reduce stress, and increase opportunities for social interaction (Image: Canva)

Scientific evidence increasingly shows that both social isolation and loneliness are linked to poorer health and even an early death.  According to recent findings published in Nature Human Behaviour, social relationships play a crucial role in your well-being. One way, researchers from the University of Cambridge, are exploring these biological mechanisms is by looking at proteins circulating in the blood.

These proteins are produced by your genes and play a vital role in keeping your body functioning. Interestingly, they can also serve as targets for new treatments to address diseases. This research underscores the importance of social contact for maintaining mental and physical health.

Also read | Fatigue, anxiety, low self-esteem are signs you are mentally and physically affected by loneliness

Here are some practical ways to combat loneliness and promote mental well-being:

Maintain regular contact: Keep in touch with loved ones through phone calls, video chats, or social media. Staying in touch helps you feel connected and supported. Set aside time each week to catch up with family and friends, and be sure to nurture these important relationships.

Join a group: No, not just your WhatsApp group, but the one that shares your interests, like a book club, sports team, or art class. These can provide a sense of belonging. Being around like-minded people can help you build new friendships and reduce feelings of loneliness.

Give back: To your family, friends and also community. Giving back is a powerful way to combat loneliness. Offer help in whatever way you can. Volunteering allows you to connect with others, contribute to a cause, and improve your sense of purpose. Helping others not only benefits those you assist but can also boost your own mental well-being.

Exercise, move your body: You don’t need a gym to exercise. Simple ways like walking, jogging, yoga, or dancing, can improve both physical and mental health. Group activities, such as fitness classes or sports leagues, are especially effective in combating loneliness by encouraging a sense of community.

Seek help: If feelings of loneliness are overwhelming, seeking help from a therapist or counselor can be a constructive step. Talking to a professional can help you understand and manage your emotions, as well as provide guidance on improving your social interactions.

Positive people: Surround yourself with people who understand you. It's not just about the number of people in your life, but the quality of the relationships. Focus on nurturing deep, supportive connections with those who bring positivity to your life. Meaningful conversations and emotional support can significantly improve mental well-being.

Also read | Symptoms of depression and loneliness in senior citizens: Here's why elders face mental health issues

Go online: If physical social contact is difficult, online communities can be a great alternative. Whether through forums, social media groups, or virtual support networks, connecting with others virtually can provide companionship and reduce feelings of isolation.

Connect with self: While social connections are essential, taking care of yourself is equally important. Practicing mindfulness, meditation, or other self-care routines can help manage stress, enhance your mood, and improve your overall mental health.

Adopt a pet: Having a pet can provide companionship, reduce stress, and increase opportunities for social interaction. Walking a dog or visiting pet-friendly areas can also lead to meeting new people, further reducing feelings of loneliness.

Meet people: You may find social events taxing. However,  attending social events, both formal or informal, can help combat isolation. Take up the challenge and be open to new social experiences as it increases the chances of making connections and building a supportive network.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.