Community guideline
Promote awareness of the importance of social connection
All organizations play an important role in facilitating social interactions and creating norms that make social connections easier.
- Play an active role in promoting widespread awareness of the importance of social connection through health promotion, community dialogues, professional education programs, policy-making and other efforts.
Additional considerations
In light of the significant impact that social connections have on health and wellbeing, there is a pressing need for a holistic and comprehensive approach to raise awareness. Wellness extends beyond physical and mental health to include social wellbeing and other determinants as core components. Understanding that social connection is as important as other aspects of health is essential for developing effective community interventions.
Methods to promote social connection should hinge on comprehensive strategies that highlight the pivotal role of social connections and the detrimental effects of loneliness and isolation. Such strategies should engage non-profit and private sectors to achieve their goals – thereby maximizing the reach of such efforts. Intensive multi-media campaigns can reach a wide audience quickly, effectively disseminating information and raising awareness about the importance of maintaining social connections. Curriculum development and educational initiatives can be implemented in schools and community centers to teach both young people and adults about the value of building and maintaining healthy relationships.
Furthermore, group or one-on-one interventions can provide personalized support and education, helping individuals understand and overcome the barriers they may face in achieving social connectivity. These interventions are particularly impactful when they involve community and organizational leaders, such as landlords, employers, and business owners, who play important roles in cultivating spaces conducive to social interaction and relationship-building.
Workplace and workforce training programs should also integrate modules on the centrality of social connectivity to health. Such training can equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to foster a socially supportive work environment, promoting interpersonal connections as part of everyday professional practices.
By adopting these programmatic solutions to raise awareness and understanding, communities can encourage a shift towards more inclusive and supportive social norms. This comprehensive model not only addresses the immediate needs of individuals feeling isolated but also builds a stronger, more resilient social fabric that recognizes the importance of social wellbeing as integral to overall health.
Additional resources
The Global Initiative on Loneliness and Connection
Comprised of national organizations committed to ending loneliness and social isolation. It supports the dissemination of system-wide, national approaches to build social connection.
A UK-based organization focused on reducing loneliness and social isolation. It raises awareness, advocates for systemic changes, and provides resources to help communities, businesses, and healthcare providers create environments where meaningful connections can thrive.
An Australian national initiative addressing loneliness through research, advocacy, and community action. The organization collaborates with various stakeholders to develop strategies, provide resources, and foster social connections to create a more compassionate society.
Foundation for Social Connection
Dedicated to combating social isolation by fostering meaningful connections. It collaborates with researchers, policymakers, and community organizations to promote best practices, develop tools, and create environments that support strong, supportive relationships.
The Canadian Alliance for Social Connection and Health
A network advancing research, policy, and practice to improve social connection and public health in Canada. It brings together stakeholders to promote evidence-based strategies and advocate for policies that enhance wellbeing and social ties.
The Coalition to End Social Isolation & Loneliness
A U.S.-based advocacy organization focused on reducing social isolation and loneliness. It unites healthcare providers, community organizations, policymakers, and researchers to promote social inclusion and connectedness through education, resources, and policy changes.
The NIH Social Wellness Toolkit
Offers strategies to improve social wellbeing, including tips on building healthy relationships, effective communication, and finding social support. It emphasizes the importance of social wellness for overall health.
Outlines strategies to combat social disconnection, including strengthening social infrastructure and fostering a culture of connection, to promote a healthier society.
The WHO Commission on Social Connection
Addresses global concerns of social isolation and loneliness, linking them to severe health impacts. It promotes evidence-based strategies to enhance social connection and reduce loneliness worldwide.
A global initiative promoting authentic human connections to combat social isolation. It offers programs, events, and resources that encourage face-to-face interactions and empathy to build stronger, more inclusive communities.