Find Your People, Find Your Strength

While it is normal and perfectly acceptable to want to spend time alone to recharge and rest, humans are social creatures and are meant to be around others. It’s important to seek out a community and build a support network around you. Having groups of people you can spend time with can help your mental health and overall wellness. 

Learn more about the health benefits of finding your community and how to find your people.

Family and friends make you feel grounded and give you a sense of belonging. That means you can join a group as yourself and feel completely welcomed and connected to those around you. That means there are a handful of people you can call when you need something—whether you need an ear to listen or assistance with a challenging situation. And that means you have a place, a role in your community—the mom, the organizer, the cook, etc. 

Being able to bond over shared interests, share feelings, laugh, and enjoy each other’s company reduces the feeling of isolation, thereby reducing stress. It makes you seem less alone in the world when you know there are others around you having the same thoughts and feelings. 

Reducing stress levels is a key factor in your overall health and physical wellness. People with less stress can have lower blood pressure, reduced muscle tension, and better sleep. These lead to a stronger immune system and improve digestion. In turn, this lowers your risk for heart issues and obesity.

Now that you’ve decided you want to build up your community, it can probably feel a little daunting figuring out where you should begin. Because there is no one-size-fits-all solution, you’ve got to do a little work to identify what brings you joy, what excites you, and what makes you feel satisfied at the end of the day. 

Start by making a list of your interests—maybe it’s reading, gardening, walking, knitting? You can check community centers or Facebook events for gatherings related to your specific interests. Book stores and coffee shops are great places to find different kinds of book clubs. Short courses, introductory classes, workshops, or certifications  at local colleges and universities could be another great way to connect with others. If fitness is top-of-mind, you can find group classes at a Hancock Health Wellness Center.

Having the same values and beliefs are also critical to creating a healthy community. You can connect with others that are in the same mindset as you through volunteer work. This could be at nonprofit organizations you support or places of worship. Not only will you find like-minded individuals, you will also be giving back to the larger community together.

If there is an issue you’re struggling with—grief, substance issues, being a caregiver, new parents—and want more support from peers, you can join a support group. Hancock Health offers a number of support groups and classes throughout the year. 

Remember, it’s good to be around others, so everyone else around you is also seeking their community. It may take a little time, but you will find your people.