The benefits of social connection

Engaging in social connection is essential for our basic functioning. We are a social species, which means when we are amongst others who we feel connected to, identify with, and share values and goals with, we thrive in our physical, mental, and interpersonal health.

More specifically, when we feel connected to others, it is shown to lower our cortisol levels (stress hormone), increase our ability to get through difficult situations, lower symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve our ability to recover from physical injury, and improve overall physical health.

Social connection can be more complex amongst some veterans. This is due to their specialised training and feeling an inability to relate to civilians. More specifically, they are trained to be more aware of danger in their surroundings, including people, which can make it difficult to relax in social settings.

The benefit of repeatedly engaging in social connection activities is that over time, those same symptoms that caused suffering, will decrease. Anxiety and depression symptoms will decrease, feelings of belonging will increase, it can even help with chronic pain management.

When we consider these specific experiences of veterans, you can see that the social connection activities that Mates4Mates provide are unique where other veterans make up these group activities. This can go a long way in bypassing some of the hurdles for social connection.

For anyone who is feeling isolated, try just dipping a toe in a new social activity. While it can be initially uncomfortable, it will get better and the improvements you will see are endless.

At Mates4Mates, we hold our social connection activities regularly, both face-to-face and online, to provide a safe place to build connections and find mateship. From weekly barbeques and coffee catchups to creatives arts or cooking groups, school holiday programs and more. For more information, give us a call on 1300 462 837.

Tips to improve your interpersonal relationships

1. Be honest and acknowledge that it will be difficult. Comfort zones don’t grow without being temporarily uncomfortable.
2. Recruit a psychologist to provide you with support and the tools to manage any triggering feelings or symptoms.
3. Start small. Pick a social activity that is manageable such as calling a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while (or sending them an email or text). A Mates4Mates social connection activity is also a good place to start, as there will be other people there with similar experiences.
4. Repeat, repeat, repeat. If you are attempting to become comfortable with something the number one key is to repeat it as many times as necessary. It might not happen after one activity, but that’s okay. The more you challenge yourself the easier it will be to become more comfortable in social settings.

Written by Jonathan Moscrop, Mates4Mates Psychologist