Social connections impact your healthSocial connectedness is a sense of belonging with other people. It may not seem like a big deal, but many studies show social connectedness may be just as important to your health as exercising, eating well and managing your health. When you think about how much time many of us spend behind a computer or scrolling through a phone, it’s easy to understand the feeling of isolation created by our modern devices. While independence is good, a lack of human interaction can hurt your health and well-being.

Feeling connected with others provides the following health benefits:

• Decreased stress, anxiety and depression

• Improved immunity and recovery from illness

• Higher self-esteem and empathy for others

• Better emotional control

November 2020

Wellness UpdatesFrom Healthy Merits

Social ConnectivityAs we continue to do our part to relieve the impact of COVID-19 by restricting our interactions, it’s important to stay in touch with others. As the pandemic evolved, we adopted lifestyle changes we never could have expected. But even with the virus as a lingering threat, we can still remain socially connected while socially distanced.

Without in-person interactions, you may feel sad or tired. and even though you can’t physically be near friends and loved ones, staying in touch is still important for your well-being.

Fighting loneliness and isolation, especially through COVID-19Even before COVID-19 was a factor, loneliness, alienation and isolation were on the rise in the U.S.

We have all experienced moments of loneliness in our lives. But many people live with loneliness more often—even daily—which can lead to bouts of depression and anxiety. Physically, loneliness has been directly linked to increased blood pressure, weight gain, sleep deprivation and heart disease. It also impacts self-esteem and future social interactions.

For many, the addition of quarantining has made it even harder to stay connected with our communities and friends.

But thankfully, with the help of technology, we still have plenty of opportunities to maintain connectedness and relationships.

Feeling connected with others provides the following health benefits:

• Decreased stress, anxiety and depression• Improved immunity and recovery from illness• Higher self-esteem and empathy for others• Better emotional control

What can you do to stay connected? So, what are the best ways for you and the people in your life to “get together,” whether it’s online or over the phone?

Some popular ideas include:

Whichever ways you choose to connect with others, be sure to balance it so you’re not overloading your personal time. Also, remember connecting should be fun and enjoyable, not a chore. So, if you’re invited to an online gathering you aren’t comfortable with, don’t begrudgingly join—skip that one and choose how to connect with the people you care about in another way.

Using video conferencing apps, such as Skype, Messenger, Zoom, FaceTime®, Google Hangouts™ and Houseparty. If you’re not familiar with these apps, call your friends and family ahead of time to see if they’re already using a particular app. They can help you set up an account and walk you through it! You can also find app descriptions by searching the products in your device’s app store.

Playing online virtual games through your computer, tablet, smartphone or gaming system. Some of these even have built-in communication options, so you can talk directly with other players.

Trying a new recipe together using video chat or a video conferencing app Swap recipes with friends and family members, and teach them what to do, or have them teach you! You can even find a new recipe online that neither of you have tried and make it together. Then you can have a “dinner party” and talk about what you like about the dish—you can even invite additional “guests” when it’s dinner time!

Working out with a partner or group—virtually! Using video chat, you can still sweat it out with your gym buddies by streaming the same workout videos or practicing yoga together. This helps your mental health, along with your physical health! You can even join workout communities like Peloton, MapMyFitness, Fitocracy and many more to keep you motivated and challenged.

Starting a book club. If you and your friends have found you’ve been reading more during quarantine, it’s a perfect time to share what you’re reading in a group discussion.

Sending letters by mail. If you get a little tongue-tied on phone calls or video chats, consider connecting with others the old-fashioned way—by sending notes or cards through the mail. If it helps you to stay connected by writing things out on paper, do so by sharing your thoughts, updates, recipes, etc. with the people in your life.

Volunteering online. As the quarantine continues, there are lots of charities that could use help to continue their services. It’ll also help you connect with other volunteers and those in need.

© 2020–2021 Meritain Health, Inc.

Questions? We’re here to help. For more information, call Healthy Merits Customer Service at 1.877.348.4533 or email healthymerits@meritain.com.

This newsletter is for informational purposes only, and is not meant as medical advice.

Sources: https://www.campaigntoendloneliness.org/threat-to-health/

https://www.hrsa.gov/enews/past-issues/2019/january-17/loneliness-epidemic

https://www.healthiergeneration.org/articles/5-ways-to-stay-socially-connected-while-physically-distant

http://depts.washington.edu/uwcssc/content/staying-connected-during-covid-19

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/living-mild-cognitive-impairment/201606/the-health-benefits-socializing

Wellness Challenge: Connect40 Challenge The Connect40 Challenge invites you to have 40 meaningful conversations with different people in 30 days. Call an old friend. Talk to your neighbor. Strike up a conversation with a stranger. Phone your parents, sibling or extended family member. Having strong social ties can help you live a longer, healthier life.

Who Date Who Date