Stay Social

THE IMPORTANCE OF STAYING SOCIAL
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The winter months can naturally cause people to turn inward and be more isolated. Socializing plays a huge role in our health and well-being, and it's essential to fulfill our social needs as the temperatures around us start to rise

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MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS
• Interacting with others boosts feelings of happiness and decreases feelings of depression
• Socializing helps sharpen memory and cognitive skills and lowers your risk of dementia
 
PHYSICAL HEALTH BENEFITS
• Social engagement is associated with a stronger immune system
• Socialization can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease by decreasing cortisol levels
• People with more social support tend to live longer than those who are isolated


EMOTIONAL HEALTH BENEFITS
• Face-to-face contact releases neurotransmitters like oxytocin, which contribute to your
sense of well-being
• Socializing promotes a sense of safety, belonging and security
• People who feel more connected to others have higher self-esteem, greater empathy for
others, and are more trusting and cooperative


IDEAS FOR CONNECTING SOCIALLY:
• Go for a walk or go to the gym with a friend
• Walk through your neighborhood and say hello to people you meet
• Sign up for a class at your local recreation center, library, or university
• Attend religious services at your church, synagogue, or temple
• Volunteer at your favorite charity organization
• Participate in a neighborhood or community group
• Have a friend or family member over for coffee or tea
• Play cards or board games with others