Dr. Andrea Taylor is a clinical psychologist at UT Health, and she emphasizes that social connectedness is fundamental to well-being.
HOUSTON — Social health is an often-overlooked component of overall wellness, but medical experts say spending time with others is just as important as physical and mental health care.
Dr. Andrea Taylor is a clinical psychologist at UT Health, and she emphasizes that social connectedness is fundamental to well-being.
“I think one of the important things to realize is that social connectedness is a part of health,” Taylor said.
She explained that patients with strong social support systems tend to have better health outcomes.
“It’s very intertwined and we know, for example, that when people are going through physical health issues, could be recovery from a heart attack, could be recovery from cancer or going through the cancer experience, that those who have social support and social connections tend to do better,” Taylor said.
Pat Pullens, one of Taylor’s patients, has experienced the importance of social connections during difficult times. After her only child died unexpectedly, Pullens was diagnosed with breast cancer a year later. Therapy has been helpful, as well as her support system.
“So, it’s important that we get socialization because we can’t just stay in those houses by ourselves,” Pullens said.
The holiday season can be particularly challenging for people struggling with loneliness. Taylor said she sees increased feelings of isolation among her patients during this time of year.
“Yes, a lot of people towards the holiday season tend to feel more isolated or alone,” Taylor said.
She advises people to manage their expectations during the holidays rather than comparing their experiences to idealized versions depicted in commercials and social media.
“So, I think getting rid of the idealistic picture of what the social activities should look like is very helpful and saying, um, you know, I’m not gonna go in with these great expectations that it’s gonna look like the commercial, um, but I am gonna go enjoy myself,” Taylor said.
Pullens has taken a proactive approach this year by making plans to avoid spending Christmas alone. Her son’s cousin will be visiting from Florida to cook dinner with her.
“It won’t leave me there in the house by myself lonely and dejected and feeling so lonely and abandoned,” Pullens said.
Health experts recommend several strategies for building social connections, including joining groups based on personal interests, volunteering, and starting new hobbies. Reaching out to others who may be struggling with a simple invitation to dinner or a movie can also make a significant difference.
Taylor reminds people that the need for social connection extends beyond the holiday season.
“Remember, it’s not only at the holidays that we need connection but all throughout the year,” she said.
Beyond helping people cope with existing medical problems, maintaining strong social health can reduce the risk of developing chronic and serious illnesses, including heart disease, depression, and anxiety.
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