How Community Impacts Mental Health
When we think about community we often think about the place where we live. We think about the collection of houses on streets and the little amenities within that collection of things. That's not at all what I am referring to when I say that Community can have a HUGE impact on your mental health. When I think about community, I think about Support groups, AA, Church, and family. I personally also think about NFT communities as I've developed a strong sense of community with a few groups that I've met in that space. I realize that some people experience some of these groups differently and that some of these groups might have even hurt people in times past. As a general rule community should be uplifting and help you to be the best version of yourself.
One of the most important aspects of community is the sense of belonging it provides. When we feel like we belong to a group of people who understand and accept us, we experience a sense of security and acceptance that can have a positive impact on our mental health. This sense of belonging can be especially important for those who have experienced trauma or isolation, as it can help to counteract feelings of loneliness and alienation. Trauma can come from all kinds of things in life but immediately my mind goes to service members who have seen combat, people who were abused as children, and people who have endured drug addiction personally or through the struggle of a loved one. I believe that community can play an integral role in helping those people live normal and healthy lives.
Types of Communities and the Impact they Have on Mental Health
Support groups are one type of community that can have a particularly powerful impact on mental health. These groups are often composed of people who are dealing with similar issues or challenges, and they provide a space for individuals to share their experiences, offer support to one another, and learn from each other. For example, support groups for individuals dealing with addiction or mental health issues can provide a sense of validation and understanding, as well as practical advice and coping strategies. One issue that we run into as men is a feeling of embarrassment for not just fixing or handling our problems on our own. As I've expressed in previous articles, we can't navigate every issue in life solo and it's normal to confide in people who have similar life experiences. I'd encourage you to think of it like asking a guy who's been painting for years what the best technique to tape the trim is. As you learn from the people in these support groups you build relationships and are able to better deal with your own unique experiences.
“There is immense power when a group of people with similar interests gets together to work toward the same goals.” – Idowu Koyenikan
Another aspect of community that can have a positive impact on mental health is the sense of purpose and meaning it can provide. Joining a group or organization that is working towards a common goal or mission can give individuals a sense of purpose and direction, which can be especially beneficial for those who are struggling with feelings of aimlessness or don't have direction in their lives. This can also be true for communities built around a shared hobby or interest, as it provides an outlet for stress and help people to find a sense of belonging. Most people have something that they're passionate about. Getting involved in an organization that supports your passion is a great way to plug into a community and prioritize your mental health.
Community can also provide a sense of connection and belonging for people who may be struggling with their identity. Joining a community of people who share similar identities or experiences can help individuals to feel seen and understood, which can be a powerful antidote to feelings of isolation or alienation. When men retire, change career paths, get divorced, or lose a spouse they can really be at a loss when it comes to redefining who they are as people. Having a group of likeminded people to spend time with and talk to can help you think through who you want to be within your new set of circumstances.
It's also worth noting that community can have a positive impact on physical health. For example, people who are part of a community that values exercise and healthy eating may be more likely to adopt these habits themselves. As much as cross-fitters have been stereotyped over the last several years they sure are a closeknit, strong community, that encourages one another to take their health seriously. They also tend to have a very strong sense of community and are willing to defend one another against the haters. Cross-fit certainly isn't the only option for this and for whatever it's worth I'm definitely not a CrossFit guy but I think credit is due here. There are running clubs, lifting clubs, and adult sports leagues you can participate in to prioritize your physical health. There are also nutrition clubs and groups that meet regularly to talk about things like supplementation, how they create time to cook healthy meals, or even share their best recipes or grilling techniques.
Wrapping Up
“We cannot live only for ourselves. A thousand fibers connect us with our fellow men.” – Herman Melville
Community can have a profound impact on mental health. It provides a sense of belonging, support, purpose, and connection that can help individuals to navigate difficult times and improve overall well-being. Whether it's through support groups, organizations working towards a common goal, or communities built around shared identities or interests, community can be a powerful tool in promoting mental health. It's important to find and build the right communities for ourselves, and to actively work to make those communities better for everyone. As always make sure to make a positive impact today. Do something for someone in need or just a nice gesture for a person in passing. Thanks for reading.
John
John Lockman is passionate about promoting men's mental health. Having lost a family member to suicide at an early age, he is committed to raising awareness about the disproportionate number of men affected by this devastating issue. Through his own personal experiences and his website, www.thelockmanlounge.com, John hopes to help men think differently about how to prioritize their well-being and become more comfortable acknowledging and processing their feelings in a healthy way.
In addition to his passion for mental health advocacy, John also has almost two decades of experience in the business world. Most recently, he oversaw roughly 100 million dollars of annual revenue and was responsible for managing a team of 75 employees. In this role, John had a significant impact on customer service, profitability, employee retention, and marketplace growth. With his wealth of knowledge and experience, John is a seasoned professional with valuable insights to share.
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