Support from families, friends and communities is a big contributor to better health.
A well-known California study found that the more social contacts people have, the
lower their chances of dying younger than they otherwise would have. This was true for
both men and women. Other studies have shown that married people live longer than
unmarried people.
What causes this relationship between health and social support?
- For individuals
It seems there is a link between social support and the ability to respond to and
cope with stress effectively. Having support from family, friends and co-workers can help
people solve problems and deal better with hardship. It can also help them develop a sense
of control over their life circumstances.
Moreover, it is thought that coping with stress and having control boost the immune and
nervous systems’ responses that keep us healthy.
- For our society
The degree of social cohesion – or civic vitality – in a society is an
important determinant of the health of the people who live there. In other words,
societies with stable economies, more equal incomes and caring communities have healthier
populations.
Beyond a certain level of prosperity, a key factor is how societies choose to
distribute the available resources. It appears there is more social cohesion in societies
that distribute resources more equitably. These types of societies are made up of members
who care about their communities, who are involved in making them a better place to live,
and who have basic trust in their fellow human beings.
What can we do to create a more supportive community?
Communities can strengthen social bonds through:
- neighbourhood initiatives (such as "neighbourhood watch" programs and food
co-operatives)
- collective housing projects (such as co-operative condominiums)
- inter-generational projects (such as home visiting services)
- cross-cultural gatherings.
It’s everyone’s responsibility to ensure that there is a level of support and
security for all members of the community.
References
Berkman, L.F., Breslow, L. Health and Ways of Living: The Alameda County Study. New York: Oxford University Press, 1983. Berkman L. Assessing the physical health effects of social networks and social support. Annual Review of Public Health 1984; 5:413-432.
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