Make This Your Year of Connection

"The American Psychological Association's annual Stress in America survey has highlighted, what they call, a "crisis of connection." The survey finds that 62% of adults find societal division a significant source of stress in their lives. Moreover, half of Americans report feelings of emotional disconnection, including social isolation; feeling "left out;" and a lack of companionship. I hear similar themes from my adult patients every week. The irony is that most people want connection, but they can't seem to find each other."

"Start by connecting with yourself. This may seem like odd advice, given that we struggle to connect with others, but understanding ourselves and our emotional needs is an important starting point. We must realize what is missing from our lives before we start to remedy it. By being honest with ourselves and working on our core sense of self, we are in a better position to make the relationships in our lives mutually beneficial and two-sided."

"Connect with nature in order to be more grounded and less stressed overall. Researchers have found what nature-lovers have long known: that being in and around "green spaces," those with grass and trees, can be beneficial in reducing both physical and psychological distress. Why might this aid in connection with others, our ultimate goal? Because when we are stressed, we are less likely to be receptive to a healthy mutual connection with those around us."

Many adults experience emotional disconnection and social isolation, with societal division contributing significantly to stress. Understanding personal emotional needs and strengthening core sense of self helps identify what is missing and supports mutually beneficial relationships. Spending time in green spaces reduces physical and psychological distress, lowers overall stress, and improves receptivity to healthy connections. Reducing superficial interactions and social-media-driven 'fake connection' is necessary to foster authentic relationships. Genuine connection often requires vulnerability and proactive effort, but pursuing self-knowledge, nature, honest communication, and intentional social behavior increases the likelihood of developing rewarding, reciprocal social bonds.

Read at Psychology Today