Social connection and health

VicHealth focuses on strengthening social connections to improve health and wellbeing – both mental and physical.

Our social connections comprise people we know; the friends we confide in, the family we belong to and the community we live in. The need to belong, be connected and engaged in group and civic activities are intrinsic to mental health and wellbeing.

These seemingly simple needs have a profound impact on mental health and wellbeing. However, activities that focus on enhancing social connection and participation must bring together many complex elements.

Important aspects of social connection include:

• supportive social networks; family, friends and community groups
• participation in social activities such as those run by community groups or clubs
• civic engagement through community groups, such as church or volunteer, service clubs, and professional or political associations.

Impacts on health and wellbeing

People who have good social relationships have a 50% greater likelihood of survival than people with poor social relationships. 
Source: Opportunities for social connection (summary of learnings and implications)

There is a link between better health and high levels of participation and social cohesion in communities. People who are socially isolated and excluded are more likely to experience low self-esteem, psychological distress and be more at risk of coronary heart disease. Research suggests that social relationships are as significant in determining health as exercise and diet.

Social and economic status can affect the amount of social support available to individuals. People experiencing poverty also experience social exclusion and isolation, which have negative impacts on their health.

VicHealth supports initiatives that aim to increase opportunities for social connection, to improve health outcomes for Victorians.

Social connection, arts and new media

VicHealth’s arts and new media activities aim to reduce social isolation through building healthy, inclusive communities. Participation in the arts and new media encourages social connections between people and groups, community engagement and individual skill development.

The arts and new media are creative, effective tools that can be used to raise awareness, inform individuals and allow them to express opinions and take action. All of these are important to individual and community wellbeing.