In 2023, the Surgeon General of the United States released a report calling attention to the epidemic of loneliness and isolation in the United States. This was a big deal! Surgeon General Reports are often landmark publications that shape how we respond to health issues in the country.

Social connection is a fundamental human need. Our connections with others and our community is critical to individual and public health. Studies have shown that loneliness and isolation are more of a major health issue today than smoking, diabetes, and obesity. Unfortunately, individuals are not recognizing this as a major cause for concern.

So where do we go from here?

There are many ways we can connect socially, which generally falls under one of the three vital components: structure, function, and quality.

These three vital components are each important and may influence health in different ways. It is important to understand that social connection in our lives is not static. Social connectedness changes over time with life events like job transitions or moves, or maybe even the weather. Virtually everyone experiences loneliness from time to time. In fact, that feeling can be especially noticeable around the holidays and times of extreme stress.

Here are some things you can do to help ease that feeling:

  • Join a Class or Club: This connects you to a group of people who share a common interest.
  • Volunteer: This can help you meet others and feel part of a larger group, all while helping you find more meaning in your life.
  • Strengthen Existing Relationships: Call friends and loved ones more often, and make it a priority to plan a get-together.
  • Adopt a Pet: Pets provide companionship and unconditional love, and even opens doors to a new community of other like-minded pet owners.
  • Check on Your Neighbor: Simply checking on your neighbor is not only a good way to build social connection, it is also a way to ensure friends are safe and doing ok.
  • Practice Self Care: Eat nutritious food, exercise, get enough sleep, and listen to your body.

It is important to note that keeping busy may be a solution for some, but for others you may feel a sense of stress or anxiety from too many interactions. Start small. Make it a priority to reach out to one old friend a week. Schedule a spontaneous exercise class and ease in. Surround yourself with people who motivate you and make you feel whole.

Everyone needs someone, and that person could be you!

Community Spotlight: Medina County District Library and Wadsworth Public Library Make Social Connection Possible

Outside of our homes and work, libraries are a place where people gather to communicate and build relationships. Right here in Medina County, our library systems are making strides to help people connect by creating opportunities for social connection.

The Medina County District Library not only provides a reliable safe space, but the following programs have been initiated to help Medina County residents connect:

  • Memory Cafes: Memory Cafes are designed to provide social interaction for caregivers and families of those with dementia who often feel isolated. These take place on the first Monday of each month at the Buckeye Library.
  • Outreach Services Book Mate Program: This is an opportunity for a Book Mate Volunteer to deliver materials to your home once a month if you are not able to reach the library.
  • Story Time: While story time might be designed for young children, parents benefit too! This is an opportunity for new parents to meet other parents with children of a similar age; new parents can often experience isolation. Sensory kits are also available for in-library use.

The Wadsworth Public Library and staff pride themselves on their schedule of a variety of regular programs for patrons of all ages:

  • Homeschool Hangouts: Recently introduced, families can come to get to know other families, play games, and do activities in a relaxed and welcoming environment. There is also a long-standing art program and educational program.
  • Book Buddies: Teens can become a “book buddy” volunteer and come monthly to read to younger children.
  • Movie Matinee: In partnership with the Wadsworth Soprema Senior Center, the library offers a movie matinee for folks to enjoy a film and meet local seniors.

If you are experiencing extreme feelings of loneliness, know that there are resources throughout Medina County that can help. If you aren’t sure where to start, the Medina County Health Department has a licensed Social Worker dedicated to provide resources to help cope with emotional, financial, and social needs. Call 330-723-9688, option 1, to speak with a member of our Health Center staff. You can also call the Medina County crisis helpline at 330-725-9195 for immediate assistance.