Social Activity and Stress
A study released by the JAMA ( Journal of the American Medical Association) “followed nearly 45,000 people ages 45 and up who had heart disease or a high risk of developing the condition. Those who lived alone, the study found, were more likely to die from heart attacks, strokes, or other heart complications over a four-year period than people living with family or friends, or in some other communal arrangement.” If being lonely does not kill you, it can also make you depressed according to the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health study.
The science is strong that having social activity and support in life is extremely valuable to the human soul. Having positive and loving people in life helps one bounce back after a difficult season in life. Having someone to talk to or vent about struggles can be literally life-saving.
Social Activity Ideas
Having positive social supports in life is vital. For some it can be easy to get lost in work, personal hobbies or even recreation time. Some people prefer to be alone and do these activities by themselves. Although, many studies are showing the importance of having positive social supports in life. There is always going to be more work that needs to get done. The workaholics need to learn to set boundaries and limits, to be able to create time that is primarily focused on being social. The introvert needs to maintain a balanced lifestyle which includes other people in their life.
Some suggestions for adding more social elements in life could include:
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- Dating your spouse
- Using all of your vacation time
- Finding Positive friends
- Have friends outside of work
- Find a mentor/accountable partner, life coach or counselor.
- Get involved in hobbies/activities that force more social interactions.