15 – 20 June marked Loneliness Awareness Week, the world’s largest campaign to inspire conversations about loneliness and promote connection activities. Loneliness is a normal human emotion that arises when there is a difference in the relationships we want and those that we have. Most people will experience loneliness at some point in their lives, even for short periods of time.
Loneliness and social isolation are recognised as significant public health challenges, with wide-ranging negative impacts on the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities. In contrast, strong social connections are key to good physical and mental health, wellbeing and resilience.
The 5 Principles of Wellbeing (New Economics Foundation):
Connect – connecting with others fosters a sense of belonging and support.
Be active – exercise releases endorphins, which help reduce stress and improve our overall mood.
Take notice – being present and fully engaged in the moment enriches our daily experiences.
Keep learning – engaging in activities that challenge your mind boosts your self-esteem and keeps your brain active.
Give – the positive emotions associated with helping others can significantly improve our mental and emotional health.
Communities and community spaces play a vital role in closing the disconnection gap and building stronger social connections. The provision of a range of accessible community activities, groups and events allow people to meet and make connections with different people, share skills and feel good.
In Powys we recognise the value of building stronger social connections. Our library, museum and archive services across Powys provide a wide range of activities, resources and events year-round that individuals can access at all points in their lives to support their health and wellbeing. From knit and knatter clubs to volunteer opportunities, community jigsaws to art exhibitions, chess clubs to digital sessions, the opportunities are boundless!