Social Wellness

Last week I started my self-care series based on Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA’s) eight dimensions of wellness. Check out the intro here: Self-Care Series. I kicked it off by focusing on my emotional-wellbeing. Check that out here: Emotional Wellness: Week One

It went okay.. I felt a lot of emotions. My job required a lot of my attention and my body was exhausted from the gym. But I did find myself pausing more throughout my day and trying to understand what my body was telling me. I will admit, I didn’t feel great most of last week, but instead of dismissing that, I tried to lean into the feelings and understand why I was feeling that way.

I had a conversation with a friend last night about how social media has forced us to feel like we can only share our “highlight reel”. If something is wrong or not going great, we feel like we should keep it to ourselves because admitting when you’re struggling can be awkward or even embarrassing. But it’s all part of the journey. Allow yourself to grieve just as you allow yourself to celebrate.

This week I’ll be focusing on my social well-being.

SAMHSA defines social well-being as:

“Developing a sense of connection, belonging, and a well-developed support system.”

My social well-being has been a roller coaster lately. It was really tough to move two hours away from my friends. I was incredibly lonely the first few months. But I’ve been making new friends and learning how to navigate long-distance friendships.

I know that my family will always be there supporting me – no matter what. It’s been interesting transitioning from a college student to an “adult” in the workforce, but my family is always there.

One of my grandfathers recently mailed me a letter with the lyrics of Rascal Flatt’s song “My Wish” written out. It was one of the sweetest, most sincere things I’ve ever opened. I know that I will treasure that letter for a very long time.

To focus on my social well-being this week I am going to make a list of all the supportive people in my life. Family, friends (old and new), coworkers, acquaintances, anyone that supports me in some way or another.

I also plan to reach out to at least one family member or friend each day just to check on them and see how their day is going. You get out what you put into relationships.

When my friends and I cook our weekly dinner meal together, I am going to suggest ignoring our phones while we cook and eat. Being present during quality time is so important to me.

Stay tuned for next week when I focus on my occupational wellness! Occupational Wellness: Week Three