One of the best ways to be healthier and happier is through increased connection and support. Our social connections and relationships have a direct impact on physical and mental health.

Relationships, support and resources can protect the well-being of all community members. Learn more about how you can improve your health through social and community support.

Supportive Relationships

We have better health overall when we come together to support, nurture and care for friends and family. Looking after loved ones is a great way to help them improve their health and quality of life.

Talking and spending time with someone can help reduce disease and increase health. Benefits of strong relationships include better recovery after illness or injury and longer, healthier lives. 

Social Isolation

Social isolation has a negative effect on our well-being. People with more social connections, a wide variety of relationships, and supportive friends and family are healthier than those who are lonely. 

Socially isolated people are:

• 50% more likely to have dementia
• 29% more likely to have heart disease
• 32% more likely to have a stroke
• More likely to be anxious, depressed or commit suicide
• Four times as likely to die from heart failure 
• More likely to become sick from viruses and respiratory illnesses
• More likely to die prematurely

Community programs help people connect, make friends and boost local health.

Community Impact

Overall, people need healthy relationships and social interactions to stay well and live longer, healthier lives. We can improve the lives of our friends and neighbors no matter their race, gender, sexuality, religion or age by offering support to help people stay connected socially.