28 Mar Canada Leading the Way in Promoting Social Connection for Improved Health and Well-Being

Canada is making history by introducing the world’s first Social Connection Guidelines, set to be released in the next few years. These guidelines aim to encourage individuals to develop more positive and meaningful relationships, both virtually and in-person, a crucial step in the current context where many people are experiencing increased disconnection due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

At the core of these guidelines is the understanding that social connections have a significant impact on our physical and mental health. Research has proven that individuals with strong social connections are more likely to live longer, have better overall health, and are better equipped to manage stress and difficult situations. 

The Harvard Study of Adult Development has even identified social relationships as the most critical factor in predicting a longer, healthier life.

On the other hand, loneliness and social isolation can lead to negative health outcomes, such as an increased risk of heart disease, depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, and cognitive decline. Unfortunately, many individuals are unaware of the harmful effects of isolation on physical health.

The Canadian Association for Social Connection and Health (CASCH), a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting social connection as a key determinant of health and well-being, has been leading the development of the Social Connection Guidelines. With the support of the Canadian government and in partnership with the GenWell Project led by Founder Pete Bombaci, CASCH has conducted extensive research on the importance of social connection and its impact on health. The forthcoming guidelines will offer practical tips and advice on building and maintaining meaningful social connections, covering topics such as starting a conversation with a stranger, joining a community group, or volunteering. For an excellent interview on CBC’s “The Current with Matt Galloway”, listen to the discussion with Dr. Gillian Sandstrom and Pete Bombaci here. 

While waiting for the official guidelines’ release, there are several things individuals can do to enhance their social connections. Attending human connection events, such as networking events, yoga classes, book clubs, or cooking workshops, is an excellent way to meet new people and form meaningful connections. Joining community groups and volunteering are also effective ways to give back to society while connecting with like-minded individuals.

In conclusion, Canada’s Social Connection Guidelines are a significant step towards promoting social connection as a key determinant of health and well-being. Positive social interactions are beneficial not just for our mental health but also our physical health, and by taking advantage of the practical tips and advice in the guidelines, individuals can start building more positive and meaningful relationships. Let’s embrace the power of social connection and start living happier and healthier lives. 

Tony Esteves is a virtual and in-person Business Coach for Artists, author, facilitator, and circus performer living in beautiful Canmore, Alberta, Canada. With over a decade of coaching experience, he has helped many individuals and businesses achieve their goals. Tony is a passionate adventurer and has traveled to 40 countries, believing that adventure is an essential aspect of living a full life.

In addition to coaching, Tony is also an experienced facilitator who has led in-person learning experiences in Canada, the USA, South Africa, South America, Europe, and Japan. His mission on this planet is to bring people together and create more human connections.

Tony is the author of “Talk2MorePeople: Change Your Life by Meeting People,” which teaches people to uncover opportunities and adventures by putting down their phones and connecting with real, live people face-to-face. By registering for Tony’s free “Talk2MorePeople Tips” at https://tinyurl.com/T2MPnews/, you will receive a FREE Human Connection Starter Kit including more than 80 different ways to meet new people. Learn how to build more human connections into your life and business today!