Connecting with Others is My Well-Being

Over five weeks last April, I participated in ProjectConnect , which is offered by the Center for the Advancement of Well-Being . As someone deeply rooted in community and considering myself the “Unofficial Mayor of Mason,” I've always known the value of relationships. Still, this experience shed light on the science behind it. Research proves that connections and community enhance productivity, engagement, and overall satisfaction in life ( Gallup ). It was explicitly stated that this program wasn't therapy but a platform to meet new people and share stories, fostering a sense of belonging and support.

As defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , social connectedness encompasses the quality, quantity, and diversity of relationships, providing a vital support system (CDC). Strong social bonds are linked to a 50% higher likelihood of survival and can prevent various health issues like heart disease and depression (Anderson GO, Thayer C). Moreover, social connection aids in stress recovery, promotes healthy habits, and enhances overall well-being (Lee et al.). In this group, we shared simple aspects about ourselves, whether it was the origin of our names, how we define friendship, or what we would bring on a fictitious road trip, the origin of our names, how we define friendship, or what we would bring on a fictitious road trip. These prompts allowed us to practice our active listening skills and ability to communicate with new people.

I urge everyone at George Mason University to join Project Connect. Our campus's vastness can make it easy to feel isolated in our bubbles or silos. Engaging in initiatives like this breaks the barriers of our office spaces and fosters meaningful connections beyond our usual circles. This project helped me make new friends at GMU.

Close friendships are indispensable for our health, happiness, and even productivity at work. Research shows that relationships act as a shield during tough times, enhancing cardiovascular health and reducing stress levels. Conversely, individuals with few social ties face higher risks of heart disease and are more susceptible to illnesses like colds (Cohen et al., 2003). Moreover, strained relationships can prolong recovery times from surgeries or injuries, as evidenced by a study where wounds took nearly twice as long to heal for couples reporting hostility (Kiecolt-Glaser et al., 2005).

The proximity of friends also matters significantly. Those living closer profoundly influence our well-being, highlighting the importance of nearby social connections (DukeMed News, 2004). Additionally, the sheer amount of social interaction plays a crucial role. Studies suggest that six hours of daily social time increases well-being and decreases stress levels (Ertel et al., 2008).

Friendships are vital in personal life and integral to workplace dynamics. Gallup's research emphasizes the significance of having a 'best friend at work,' which significantly boosts engagement, productivity, and overall well-being (Rath, 2006). Workers with close friendships are seven times more likely to be engaged and produce higher-quality work (Boden-Albala et al., 2005).

Even casual interactions at work contribute to productivity. Studies reveal that small increases in social cohesiveness led to significant gains in output (Economist.com , 2008). Whether through face-to-face discussions or virtual exchanges, maintaining strong connections with colleagues enhances professional performance and personal well-being.

Ultimately, the quality and quantity of our social connections profoundly impact various aspects of our lives. Investing in friendships enriches our personal experiences and improves our health, happiness, and success in both personal and professional domains. I would like you to invest in your well-being and health and try to connect with others here at GMU.

I plan to be a facilitator for a ProjectConnect Faculty and Staff Group in October, but if you are interested in participating in a group in September or October, please follow the link below:

https://forms.office.com/r/S3p86pgryH

References

· Anderson GO, Thayer C. AARP Foundation. Loneliness and social connections: a national survey of adults 45 and older. AARP Research. 2018.

· Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) Measures Executive Read-Out, prepared by the SDOH Measures Workgroup. 2021.

· Lee RM, Draper M, Lee S. Social connectedness, dysfunctional interpersonal behaviors, and psychological distress: testing a mediator model. Journal of Counseling Psychology. 2001; 48(3): 310-318.

· Cohen, S., Doyle, W.J., Turner, R., Alper, C.M., & Skoner, D.P. (2003). Sociability and susceptibility to the common cold. Psychological Science, 14(5), 389-395.

· Kiecolt-Glaser, J.K., Loving, T.J., Stowell, J.R., Malarkey, W.B., Lemeshow, S., Dickinson, S.L., et al. (2005). Hostile marital interactions, proinflammatory cytokine production, and wound healing. Archives of General Psychiatry, 62(12), 1377-1384.

· DukeMed News. (2004, April 13). Isolated heart patients have twice the risk of dying, present challenges to health care workers. Retrieved August 19, 2005, from https://www . emaxhealth.com/39/176.html

· Ertel, K.A., Glymour, M.M., Berkman, L.F. (2008). Effects of social integration on preserving memory function in a nationally representative US elderly population. American Public Health Association, 98(7), 1215-1220.

· Rath, T. (2006). Vital friends: The people you can't afford to live without. New York: Gallup Press.

· Economist.com . (2008, August 20). Technology Monitor. Every move you make. Retrieved September 22, 2009, from www.economist.com/ science/tm/displaystory.cfm?story_id=11957553