Maintain Mental Health Through Social Interaction, The Importance Of Social Connection In The Modern Era

JAKARTA - The condition of social relations seems to have major implications for a person's health and well-being. Some even think that the danger is equivalent to smoking, especially in cases of loneliness.

This was said by a professor of mental and behavioral health at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Sophie Lazarus, PhD.

He conveyed the lack of social relations could have an impact on a person's physical and mental health. According to him, the lack of social connections can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes, dementia, depression, and anxiety.

"The lack of social connections is also associated with increased mortality which is equivalent to a more widely known risk such as smoking, drinking alcohol excessively, or obesity," he said.

Psychologist from the Center for Adult Behavioral Health in Cleveland Clinic, United States,ROW Potter, PsyD, told Health that loneliness or social isolation can cause more mood disorders, depression, and anxiety disorders.

Problems such as increasing anxiety and avoidance behavior as well as decreasing self-esteem, positive emotions, and motivation may be a warning sign of the impact of a lack of social relations and interactions on mental health conditions.

If such warning signs appear, it is better to re-examine time spent in the house and consider increasing social interactions through activities outside the home.

Potter realizes it may be very difficult for people with depression or anxiety to commit to spending more time outside the home.

People who experience depression may feel that activities outside the home do not bring joy or are meaningless.

While those who experience anxiety may worry that spending more time outside the home can harm them or make them uncomfortable.

Therefore, Potter suggests to those who feel their condition will be better if they spend more time outside the home to start small.

Every now and then coming to the office and spending more time with colleagues or eating out with friends can be the first choice of steps.

You can even force yourself to chat briefly with cashiers at grocery stores, Potter said. Experts say there is no right answer for everyone about how much time it takes to spend outside the home to feel better.

If after trying to increase social commitment, health conditions have not improved,Potter said, it is better to consult with health service providers to find out whether treatments such as therapy or treatment are needed.