What Goes Into Making Community Connections?

 There's a lot that goes into making community connections. A connected community tackles issues that matter to the people it lives with.

A community connection might be as simple as saying 'hello' to your neighbours when you walk past or as complex as running a pub catch up group. Whatever it is, it helps create a sense of community and gives your child a network they can use to develop their skills and interests.

1. They help tackle issues that matter

Connecting with other people - whether in person or via social media - has benefits for everyone. Getting involved in a community project, for example, can make you feel good and give you something to do when you're not doing anything else.

Having the opportunity to learn from others is also a big plus. Being exposed to new ideas, innovations and technologies can help you develop your own.

In a world where we're constantly juggling multiple demands on our time, having a community to lean on can be invaluable. A network of like-minded friends can help you make the most of your day, and help you tackle the challenges that are sure to come your way.

A well-developed network will help you find the answers to your most pressing questions, and ensure that your family is equipped for life's ups and downs. The best network will be there for you, and your loved ones, at all times.

2. They are more resilient

People who feel connected to their communities, both within and outside of the workplace, are better able to help their neighbors after disasters. This builds relationships and community strength, which in turn makes a more resilient community.

Strong, accessible health systems and disaster preparedness plans are key factors in building resilience. When these are in place, communities have the resources to respond immediately after a disaster, and to foster recovery for those who need it most.

They also build relationships that strengthen and promote a sense of belonging. This gives individuals the confidence to help others and improves the health and economic well-being of the entire community.

It’s also important for local governments, nonprofits, and organizations to work with residents to help them build stronger connections to the places they live. This helps residents to understand and trust the programs that are available in their community, which is an essential step to building resilience.

3. They are happier

One of the most important things you can do for your happiness is to build a strong network of friends and relationships. This includes friendships with family members, people you work with and people in your neighbourhood.

Research shows that people with many social connections are happier than those who have less. And they also tend to have better health and are more resilient.

The term community can mean a group of people with similar interests or beliefs, so it can include groups such as pottery clubs or religious organizations, but it can also be more broad. For example, a community might be formed around something that defines the individual’s identity such as their religion, gender or sexuality.

Studies show that loneliness increases your stress levels and can make you more susceptible to diseases such as cancer, diabetes or heart disease. So it makes sense that healthy relationships can contribute to a higher quality of life, says Emiliana Simon-Thomas, PhD, science director of the Greater Good Science Center at the University of California, Berkeley.

4. They are healthier

Community connections have a lot to do with your health. They can help you stay active, get more sleep, eat healthier and even boost your social skills!

They also improve your mood and can help you bounce back from difficult situations. This is especially true for older adults.

In fact, a meta-analysis by Holt-Lunstad and colleagues1 at Brigham Young University found that high levels of social support and social integration are associated with a 50% lower relative risk of mortality from cardiovascular disease. This is because people with strong social networks are less likely to develop obesity, inflammation and high blood pressure (which are all leading causes of premature death). And they’re better at handling stress, too. As a result, they’re better equipped to live longer and more fulfilling lives. And because we’re all connected through technology, it’s never been easier to stay social. You just have to make the effort. It’s the best way to live a healthier and happier life.