Our social health is vital to our overall health. Those who socialize with others tend to live longer than those who isolate themselves.
Step One: Develop and use positive communication skills
- Maintain eye contact when talking to individuals
- Be an active listener. Let people talk without thinking of yourself or what you’re going to say next.
- Practice engaging body language.
- Some responses may need time. Take time if you need to develop a thoughtful response so you don’t respond out of negative emotions.
Step Two: Use Good Communication Skills with the Person Being Cared For
Good communication with the person you’re caring for can help you and your care recipient. It can help you manage your social health.
- Encourage them to share their emotions and feelings with you.
- Let your loved one know you’re available to talk but don’t press them if they aren’t ready to discuss an issue.
- Remember people communicate in different ways.
- Respect the person’s need for privacy and quiet moments.
Step Three: Build Healthy, Meaningful Relationships
Humans are meant to be social species and interact with one another. It is no surprise that strong, meaningful relationships have a positive effect on our overall health.
People with strong, positive relationships tend to have:
- Healthier heart and blood pressure when responding to acute and chronic stress
- Improved endocrine and cardiovascular health
- Desire to stay healthier
- Healthier immune system
Step Four: Respect and Love Yourself
- Be willing to feel your emotions and own your feelings.
- Commit to learning about your emotions and what triggers your negative responses.
- Take loving action towards making changes.
- Assess your behaviors and how you want to change them.
- Appreciate your hard work.
- Use mantras and positive self-talk.
- Loving yourself is key to creating a passionate, fulfilled, and joyful life.
Step Five: Create a Safe and Supporting System
- During an emotional period you may struggle to pinpoint what could help, especially when all you can think about is how much you’re hurting. That’s okay. It shouldn’t discourage us from reaching out. Start with sharing how you’re feeling. Use phrases like: “I’m feeling (insert feeling). I’m not sure what I need, but I do know I don’t want to be alone right now.”
- Give people the chance to help you. Reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness.
- Schedule time with a therapist or social worker.
- Go to caregiver support groups.
- Find resources that are relevant to your needs
