The Power of Connection

by Gloria Merritt, Vice President, Behavioral Health Clinical Services & Strategic Initiatives

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a perfect time to speak to the Power of Connections. Connection to others can be just as important to mental health as exercise and healthy eating.

In fact, the psychological and physical health benefits of creating genuine relationships with others are so great that they can even outweigh the harmful effects of other risk factors. Feeling connected to another can lower anxiety and depression, enhance self-esteem, help manage our emotions, promote empathy and improve our immune systems.

The power of human connection extends far beyond our individual lives. So many of the patients we serve at Elara Caring have little or no meaningful connections and like millions of Americans, experience chronic loneliness.

Our acts of kindness, empathy and support frequently become the “connection” that creates a ripple effect. When we are truly present, when we actively listen, when we open the door to conversations around loneliness, anxiety, depression and loss, when we believe in their ability to find the strength needed to cope or to change, we become their connection.

Our patients feel heard and begin to believe they matter! This is “the hook” that promotes change, encourages healing and builds trust in the possibility of a better tomorrow. When we connect, we create a network of positive change.

Our sphere of connectivity also extends to our work lives. A connected workforce is a stronger workforce. People who have a sense of belonging at work are more likely to thrive.

As we navigate the complexities of the workplace, it is the bonds we create, the collaboration and celebration of success we share, the respect we offer, the comfort we freely give to those at times of need, that define our culture of connection.

This month of Mental Health Awareness is truly the perfect time to explore and evaluate our connections.

When we notice changes in our colleague, will we gently ask if there is something we can help them with? Will we look for ways to acknowledge the efforts of those we work with and thank them for all they do? And will we give ourselves the opportunity to connect with our own needs and value the connection to our own self care?

To harness the power of human connection, we must make it a priority. So please, reach out, connect and experience the power of connection.