Building Healthy Social Connection

Synopsis

In recent years the important role social connection plays in maintaining optimum health and wellbeing is increasingly recognised– in fact research suggests that it is a core psychological need, essential to feeling life satisfaction. Loneliness and weak social relationships in contrast are linked to higher incidence of health problems, mental health issues and even earlier morbidity. However, achieving healthy social connection in our busy modern world can be challenging despite improvements in technology – there is a stark polarisation between hyper connection and increased isolation that can be difficult to navigate. Even moreso during the festive season, when both ends of the spectrum seem to intensify.

Outcomes

• Better understand the modern phenomenon leading to polarities isolation and hyperconnection
• Learn simple strategies to cultivate healthier relationships
• Identify unhealthful social habits and their potential consequences

Suitable for

This session highlights ways to build healthier and more satisfying relationships, buffering against these common extremes. It also addresses unhealthful behaviours that often arise in social settings such as drinking, gambling, smoking and drug use – and advocates for the consideration of healthier alternatives to foster more enriching personal and professional connections.