May 6, 2019
Social Connections & Recreation
Finding other people to relate to and doing healthy things that bring you enjoyment are great ways to improve your mood and overall mental health
L oneliness is bad for a person’s health.
Fact: Being lonely can cause the same amount of damage to your lifespan as smoking 15 cigarettes a day and is more dangerous to health than obesity.
Tips to cope with loneliness:
- Look for a club to join
- Try doing something creative like a puzzle or drawing
- Visualize
some place you would like to be - Remind yourself that tomorrow is a new day
Social interaction and recreation are all around good for you.
Fact: Adolescents who participate in sports have lower odds of suffering from depression or thinking about suicide, likely because sports increase self-esteem and social support. Along with self-esteem and support adolescents will sleep better, develop problem-solving skills, reduce stress, increase academic performance, and more!
Get involved! To look for programs around the area for different age groups visit the links below:
UW-Extension Fond du Lac County
The well-being of caregivers is important.
Fact: Feelings of loneliness and isolation are common among caregivers.
To help avoid feeling burnt out as a caregiver, find a support group, ask for and accept help, manage emotions, take a break, and share responsibilities. Maintaining one’s own health will help decrease feeling burnt out. NAMI Fond du Lac Programs
Ways to Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle:
- Make sleep a priority
- Stick to a healthy diet and exercise routine
- Make time for enjoyable hobbies
Friendships can improve your health!
Friends can help celebrate good times and provide support during difficult times. Friendships increase a person’s sense of belonging, boost happiness, reduce stress, improve self-confidence, help cope with difficult situations, encourage healthy lifestyles, and much more.
Tips for finding friends and things to do in Fond du Lac County:
Look for rec sports leagues in your community
Volunteer!
Take a class
https://www.morainepark.edu/programs-and-courses/continuing-education/personal-enrichment/
Mental Health of America has created several fact sheets regarding the importance of mind-body balance on mental health. Click on the image below for a fact-sheet about social connections and recreation.
To learn more about this topic and other mental health awareness activities, visit Mental Health of America www.mentalhealthamerica.net