Creating community can help improve mental wellbeing

The state of your mental health impacts everything in your life, from how you think, feel, or act. This is why having a community—whether through family, friends, social groups, or even online networks—is so important to cultivate. 

According to Sarah Briley, EdD, LCPC, CADC, service line director for adult services at Ascension Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital, “surrounding yourself with others offers support, connection, and shared experiences, all of which contribute to improved mental health.”

Here are five ways you can improve your overall wellbeing through community and the benefits it provides.

1. Build a supportive network
   Support networks not only help in times of need but also offer daily encouragement, motivation, and companionship. Whether through casual conversations or more serious interactions, having people to turn to fosters a deeper sense of connection, reduces feelings of isolation, and promotes overall mental health. Establishing and nurturing these connections can greatly enhance resilience, making it easier to cope with stress and mental health challenges.
   Benefits: Emotional resilience, sense of belonging, mutual support, improved coping skills, positive reinforcement.
2. Volunteering
   Giving back to the community offers a sense of purpose and fulfillment, while also benefiting mental health by boosting emotional wellbeing. By helping others, you can experience increased self-esteem and satisfaction, knowing that your actions make a positive impact.
   Benefits: Increased self-esteem, sense of purpose, social connection.
3. Engaging in group activities
   Whether it's sports, creative projects, or social gatherings, participating in group activities can significantly improve mental health by providing opportunities for connection and stress relief. These activities promote relaxation, boost mood, and encourage social interaction, which helps strengthen relationships and build a sense of community. Group involvement also stimulates the release of endorphins, contributing to better emotional wellbeing.
   Benefits: Stress relief, improved mood, stronger relationships.
4. Online community spaces
   Digital communities on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram offer a way to connect, share experiences, and receive support, especially when physical distance is a barrier. Online spaces provide opportunities for you to interact with others who share similar interests or challenges, promoting a sense of belonging and reducing feelings of isolation.
   Benefits: Support, reduced isolation, belonging.
5. Foster belonging
   When you feel accepted and valued, you're more likely to engage with others and contribute to collective wellbeing. A sense of belonging strengthens social bonds, reduces stress, and encourages participation in supportive relationships that enhance mental health.
   Benefits: Increased motivation, enhanced social interaction, improved mental health.

Incorporating community into your life plays an important role in boosting mental health. Whether through building a support network, volunteering, engaging in group activities, joining online spaces, or fostering a sense of belonging, each of these five approaches offers benefits that can contribute to your overall well being.