We would not be where we are today if we had not evolved to be part of wider social group beyond our immediate family. We need the contribution of others to create & operate. The NHS would not exist without complex Co- operation. Big corporations are run by the many minds that collaborate and manifest what first appeared as a vision in somebodies imagination. We evolved to empathise and engage with each other- at first as a means of survival & to fight off predators & today, our survival is still compromised when this need is not met. Isolation & loneliness is damaging to our health. The cells of chronically lonely people are less sensitive to signals in the stress system mediated by the stress hormone cortisol and this dilutes their immune system response. People with strong support groups are emotionally & physically healthier then those who feel & perceive that they are isolated & unable to connect with others.
To be part of a wider community can give us variety and connection, a social group helps us feel we part of something and generates a feeling of belonging. I have witnessed this first hand when sitting with people during MY-Makeover events- from women going through domestic abuse to those who are terminally sick that the power of community helps heal and give hope in deep & meaningful ways. To contribute beyond ourselves benefits all involved and gets us to focus outside of our own problems and issues. To be curious of another persons world can be to open ourselves up to new thoughts and insights that can help us grow & develop. We can feel nourished by the appreciation of another and gain a deeper understanding of our own & each other’s skills and talents. By helping others we help ourselves. With more people living alone and families often living far away- to be part of other communities is vital. Sometimes with a change in circumstances like a new baby, or ill health people can withdraw from activities they used to enjoy and this can lead to this need being unmet. It can take time and effort to maintain relationships but the payoff is highly beneficial.
