Boosting Social Health: Practical Tips and Science Insights from The Neuro Nook Book Club

This idea of social health as central to overall wellness aligns with a growing body of research showing how relationships and social connections impact our health. At our Neuro Nook Book Club, we explored social health’s far-reaching effects and practical ways to nurture it.

The Science of Social Health

Modern research shows that social health profoundly influences physical health outcomes. For instance, poor social relationships have been linked to

• a 29% increase in early mortality,
• a 29% increased risk of cardiovascular disease,
• a 32% increase in stroke risk, and
• a 50% increase in the likelihood of dementia.

In contrast, people with strong social networks are more likely to experience better physical health, cognitive resilience, and emotional stability.

Yet, societal trends reveal a troubling decline in social engagement. In recent years, participation in activities like book clubs, sports teams, and neighborhood groups has fallen by nearly 20%. According to Gallup Research, 330 million adults worldwide can go weeks without meaningful contact with family or friends, leading to profound health consequences.

Practical Tips to Enhance Social Health

Despite modern life’s busyness and digital distractions, prioritizing social health is essential. Social health doesn’t require grand gestures or extensive commitments. Here are a few research-backed ways to boost connection that emerged from our book club discussions:

1. Practice the 5-3-1 Rule: Aim for five different connections each week (including family, coworkers, or friends), maintain three close relationships overall, and commit to at least one hour of quality social time each day. These interactions don’t need to be lengthy; even a quick text or a ten-minute coffee chat can make a difference.

2. Create a “To-Love” List: Write down the names of family members, friends, or anyone you wish to keep in touch with. Draw a name each day and reach out in a small way—whether through a text, phone call, or handwritten note. This practice fosters gratitude, strengthens connections, and reminds you of the value of your relationships.

3. Reflect and Connect: Think of someone in your life that you haven’t spoken to in a while. Reflect on one thing you admire about them. Then tell them directly by sending a text or email, calling them on the phone, writing them a card or letter, or telling them in person the next time you see them. Even a simple text has been shown to result in greater feelings of connectedness and support. 

4. Micro-Connections for Busy Days:  Send a brief message to someone saying “I’m thinking of you.” Small gestures—like sending a quick message or sharing a memory—are easy yet powerful ways to show someone you care. You don’t need an extended conversation to make an impact; short, thoughtful messages throughout the week can keep relationships fresh and meaningful.

The Importance of Social Boundaries and Self-Connection

Social health is not only about relationships with others; it also involves your relationship with yourself. This means setting boundaries to protect your energy, cultivating self-respect, and making time for solitude if needed. Strong social health includes respecting personal needs, whether through alone time or managing technology’s influence on our connections. For instance, limiting smartphone use and being mindful of how it impacts face-to-face interaction can help keep social bonds genuine and focused.

Final Thoughts

Building social health is a personalized journey—there’s no single "right way." What’s important is the quality of connections, not the quantity. When we nurture our relationships, set boundaries, and connect intentionally, we can enjoy the profound benefits of social well-being, enhancing not only our mental but our physical health as well. Remember, fostering connections is a powerful complement to health, adding richness and resilience to our lives.

Closing Take-Aways from the Neuro Nook

Heather: "We need to invest in our ties to friends, family, and community as if our lives depend on it– because they do."

Krystal: "Making social health a priority means deciding that it matters to you and being intentional about integrating it into your life in ways that feel feasible and fun. Even if this starts out feeling like a chore, it will become an enjoyable way of life– just like a muscle that gets stronger the more you work out."

Interested in learning more about our Neuro Nook monthly book club gatherings? Visit our website.