The 8 Dimensions of Wellness

When improving your health it is important to know where to begin. Many credible sources such as SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) recommend viewing wellness as 8 crucial dimensions. These interconnected dimensions are emotional, physical, occupational, intellectual, financial, social, environmental, and spiritual health which all help contribute to your overall wellness.

When improving your health it is important to know where to begin. Many credible sources such as SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) recommend viewing wellness as 8 crucial dimensions. These interconnected dimensions are emotional, physical, occupational, intellectual, financial, social, environmental, and spiritual health which all help contribute to your overall wellness.

For an overview of these 8 dimensions click here: 8 Dimensions of Well-Being

For more in-depth information click here: A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO WELLNESS

Social wellness

If you take a moment to think specifically about social health it may be no surprise that many of us are lonely. In a world that seems so connected, many of us are experiencing symptoms of loneliness. Although loneliness can stem from different areas of our lives, common sources include social isolation, a lack of meaningful connections, or feeling misunderstood or disconnected from others. Remember that loneliness does not necessarily mean you are alone, but rather not truly engaged or present when around people.

 “The latest Healthy Minds Monthly Poll from the American Psychiatric Association (APA) finds that, early in 2024, 30% of adults say they have experienced feelings of loneliness at least once a week over the past year, while 10% say they are lonely every day. Younger people were more likely to experience these feelings, with 30% of Americans aged 18-34 saying they were lonely every day or several times a week…” (American Psychiatric Association)

Now this may sound overwhelming however there are things you can do to reconnect with others and find enjoyment and laughter through socializing. 

Resolving Loneliness:

1. Reach out: Take the initiative to connect with others, whether it's friends, family, or joining social groups with shared interests.

1. Social groups like

1. Sports and sporting events

2. Community events

3. Local parks and recreation

4. Local Volunteer groups 

2. Be vulnerable: Open up about your feelings of loneliness with trusted individuals. authenticity fosters deeper connections.

3. Limit social media: While social media can facilitate connections, it can also exacerbate feelings of loneliness since many connections are subsurface. Limit screen time and prioritize in-person interactions.

4. Engage in hobbies: Pursue activities that bring you joy and allow you to meet like-minded individuals.

5. Seek professional help: If loneliness persists and significantly impacts your well-being, don't hesitate to seek support from a therapist or counselor.

In conclusion, combating loneliness requires a multi-step approach that addresses various social needs that we as humans all have. By taking the initiative to connect with others, being vulnerable to close friends and family, limiting/removing social media, and engaging in hobbies we can cultivate meaningful connections and lead fulfilling lives. Remember, you're not alone in your struggle, and reaching out is the first step toward healing.

Love,

 Kynr 

Works Cited

"New APA Poll: One in Three Americans Feels Lonely Every Week." American Psychiatric Association, 30 January 2024, https://www.psychiatry.org/news-room/news-releases/new-apa-poll-one-in-three-americans-feels-lonely-e#:~:text=The%20latest%20Healthy%20Minds%20Monthly,they%20are%20lonely%20every%20day.