We thirst for connections; because God has created us to be in relationship with Him and others, it is innate within us. We thrive in communities/tribes.
Relationships/connections give us purpose and meaning in our lives.
Research* shows that loneliness, represents one of the leading reasons people seeking psychological counselling, are more vulnerable to anxiety, depression, antisocial behaviour, even suicide, and violence.
1 in 4 Australians are alone
Lonely people have a 26% increased of death
54% are lonelier after COVID-19 Pandemic
The impact of loneliness is equivalent to smoking g15 cigarettes or having
Mental health issues closely related to loneliness is estimated to cost the economy up to $60 billion annually
Loss or productivity in the workplace
Significant risk factor for poor physical, mental health problems, and decreased quality of life
Whenever there is an exchange of genuine care, it is as if the roots of your soul are getting fed. Each one of us needs to have life-giving transactions for connectedness.
Connection is Life-Giving
“And let us consider how we may spur one another towards love and good deeds.” - Heb 10:24
An academic journal called The Journal of Happiness Studies published a study and found what distinguishes consistently happier people from less happy people is the presence of rich, deep, joy-producing, life-changing, meaningful relationships.
It is not how much money you have; it is not your health, security, attractiveness, IQ, or career success.
Ignite Your Soul by Connection
LET’S GET CONNECTED
Be courageous, take risks, be vulnerable, be real with God and with at least one other person in your life; it will help your mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing.
Some health benefits when we are connected with people in our lives that we can share our problems, and life’s ups and downs.
Strengthens immune system
Helps recover from disease and illness faster
Lower blood pressure
Live longer
Lower rates of depression and anxiety
Higher self-esteem
Better emotion regulation skills
Less stress
Empathy
Greater empathy for others, less likely to be self-focus and absorbed
We have purpose, a reason to get up every morning
Have compassion for self and others, do acts of kindness, join an activity or group, etc. Take time participating in other people’s stories, pouring yourself into them, giving them more than they give you. If we were connecting genuinely, attentively listening, and being heard, we probably wouldn’t need to see a counsellor.
Get Connected
"My heart is to give hope and inspire others to build healthier, stronger relationships and communities so that we can thrive rather than just survive.”
- Lyn Varty
You're not alone.
We understand the impact loneliness can have on your wellbeing. If you're struggling right now, please reach out. We're here to help you find the support you need.
We are listed as one of the best counseling services in Perth. Check out the listing on Avenue Perth here.
Note:
You can also download this same reading material Is loneliness Impacting Your Mental Health? in pdf format here.
Recommended reading: An Instrument in the Redeemers Hands (Paul David Tripp)
*Source: Report from KPMG and Groundswell Foundation