There’s a well-known African saying: “It takes a village to raise a child.” And those few words of wisdom demonstrate just how much our 21st century life has changed the landscape of our human interactions. We live within the juxtapose of the so-called “global village” with ultimate technological connectivity, yet research shows that many of us don’t even know our next-door neighbours. And more recently, the number and quality of face to face social interactions have been yet another casualty of Covid-19. 

The thing is, we’ve evolved as humans to thrive within social groups and gatherings. And whilst we live in an age which delivers unparalleled opportunity for digital social interaction, the research shows that this online connection (albeit critical for many of us in the current pandemic) is a poor substitute for the real thing…quality relationships where we know and are known.  Our wellbeing seems to be wired for connection with others.

We know that loneliness carries a health risk that equates to a long-term smoking habit. And research also demonstrates that it’s not just the elderly and isolated that are at risk but also those that appear to have it all together, the hyper-successful including senior leaders and executives.  Because. it can be lonely at the top. And suicide is the biggest killer of the under-35’s in the UK. A bit like Covid, no-one is immune. 

Meaningful social connection on the other hand has a plethora of physical and psychological benefits. When we feel an authentic sense of connectedness to others, we experience a surge in a little neuropeptide molecule called oxytocin which can help to offset stress, triggering a cascade of positive reactions which include slowing the heart rate and lowering blood pressure, both of which have physical health benefits.  

As a doctor, I am always on the lookout to identify these protective social relationships which we recognise can help to reduce and mitigate the risk that an individual in crisis may consider taking their own life.  And those precursors of crisis are all too prevalent as the pandemic inevitably simmers on… financial worry, redundancy, conflict in key relationships, domestic violence, substance and alcohol use, bereavement.   

At www.conciliohealth.com we have worked with some outstanding businesses who have truly invested in the mental health and wellbeing of their people through a strategic approach rather than a series of tokenist interventions. And the best of these businesses always have a “relational glue” that is almost tangible. Whether through mental health champions and first aiders, listening buddies or simply colleagues who care enough to spot the warning signs that might signal deteriorating mental health, these workplaces have invested in building a culture of authentic connection. So that a colleague in difficulty doesn’t need to mask how they really feel. And a concerned colleague knows that “It’s okay to ask” if a team member is struggling. 

Brenee Brown sums up this authenticity of relationship - "Connection is the energy that is created between people when they feel seen, heard and valued."

Why not take a look at the NPSA’s link below for some ideas on new and different ways to connect. 

https://www.nspa.org.uk/home/our-work/world-suicide-prevention-day-2020-2/