The surveys assessed the strength of people’s bonds with close social circles, such as family and friends, as well as with extended groups such as country, government, and humanity. People’s health behaviors and mental health and well-being related to the pandemic were also measured.
The results suggest that only connection with family, rather than other groups, is positively associated with engaging in behaviors that can improve health. Bonded people were heavily represented among those engaged in health practices.
Despite only being 27% of the entire sample of people with strong family ties, they constituted 73% of those who engaged in social distancing, 35% of those who washed their hands, and 36% of those who wore masks’ much’ or wore more. ,
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The study also found that stronger bonds with both close social circles and extended groups are associated with better mental health and well-being. Importantly, the greater the engagement in health behaviors, the better the reported psychological well-being with less anxiety and depression.
Social Connections: The Key to a Good Life
These findings suggest that public health messages tend to focus on smaller networks as well as multiple groups, especially in times of crisis when individuals are encouraged to share their positive health behaviors with their close social circles. should be done.
It has also been suggested that the health care system could reduce reliance on drug treatment by using social prescription to support individuals who do not have these constraints in their lives.
This research speaks to universal need – which is one reason why we felt it was so important to include a truly diverse sample from around the world. Wherever you are in the world, other people matter to you.
In times of upheaval, such as during disasters, social crises, or pandemics, our social bonds can be critical to receiving support. Also, having strong social connections is important for promoting mental health.
This research proves once again that humans are very much social animals, who benefit from and rely on their communities in more ways than one. This becomes even more apparent in challenging times.
Government policies should consider these psychological needs and mechanisms and involve local authorities and grassroots organizations for maximum efficiency and well-being during times of disaster.
Source: EurekAlert
