Connections with community

A large study revealed that psychological distress reduced by 34% from playing recreational sport 1-3 times a week. Organised recreational activity can improve cognitive functioning and self-esteem. It is also deemed by the study to be as potent as medication for moderate cases of anxiety and depression. In other studies, group recreational activity has been shown to decrease depression in older people. (Source)

Increasing community participation by 10% was shown to reduce violent crime rates by 1.9% (Australian study). People without social support are five times more likely to experience a mental illness (UK study). Social participation and support are strongly linked to a long life, as well as the improved handling of stressful life situations (Norway study). Participating socially can be an effective way to maintain cognitive vitality in older adults (USA study). (Source)

Social support has been proven to be a protective factor in children and teenagers’ mental wellbeing. Feeling valued and comfortable socially can prevent and reduce feelings of isolation, anxiety, depression, and more. Connection and community via peer groups even leads to fewer behavioural issues. (Source)

Discrimination, stigma, and being ignored are all experiences that have worsened or created a barrier to social connectedness for people experiencing mental illness. Stigma has, in some cases, affected carers and family members of the person experiencing the mental illness as well. (Source)