SOCIAL HEALTH IN HEALTHCARE

Discover evidence-based suggestions for ways to address loneliness in healthcare.

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Mobilizing Social Support in Healthcare: A Guide for Providers 

Caring for patients is a team effort. This article emphasizes the importance of social support in healthcare and its impact on patient outcomes. It highlights that human connection can improve physical and mental well-being, enhance treatment adherence, and even extend patient longevity.

READ THE ARTICLE | CaringBridge

5 Ways to Support Patients Who are Isolated or Lonely

In a world where isolation and loneliness have become increasingly prevalent, caregivers and healthcare providers play a crucial role in supporting patients with chronic conditions.

READ THE POST | Hero Health Hub

A Hug a Day Keeps the Doctor Away

Research underscores the need to prioritize quality time with loved ones and combat social exclusion, recognizing the healing power of touch and human connection.

READ THE ARTICLE | Scientific American

Creating the Conditions for Social Well-Being

We convened 26 experts and over 2,500 community members from 55 countries to discuss how to reduce and prevent loneliness and improve social well-being across sectors. In this report, you will discover key takeaways, stakeholder recommendations, innovation spotlights, and resources for individuals, communities, and organizations to take action.

READ THE REPORT | Social Health Labs

Spotlight on Social Connection

This article explores key opportunities for fostering meaningful connections and community building in various domains such as public spaces, transportation, entertainment, food, and digital social networks.

READ THE ARTICLE | Medium

The Surprising Way to Boost Your Immunity

We often focus on preventive measures like hand-washing and vaccinations to avoid getting sick. However, there's an overlooked health habit that can significantly boost your immune system: human connection.

READ THE ARTICLE | Psychology Today

The Link Between Loneliness & Medication Adherence

Loneliness can impact medication adherence among patients with chronic conditions. Research suggests that a lack of support and social connection may contribute to non-adherence.

READ THE ARTICLE | Hero Health

To Combat Loneliness, Promote Social Health

Loneliness is a growing epidemic with profound health implications. Scientific evidence highlights the critical role of social connections in disease prevention and overall well-being. Make social health a public health priority, join initiatives like the Togetherness Program and the Campaign to End Loneliness.

READ THE ARTICLE | Scientific American

Understanding Loneliness and Social Health Innovations in the COVID-19 Era

Exploring the impact of the pandemic on social relationships and the emerging solutions to combat loneliness: takeaways from the UCL-Penn Global COVID Study.

READ THE ARTICLE | UCL Open Environment

Preventing Caregiver Burnout through Social Support

The article emphasizes the importance of social support for caregivers to prevent burnout. It highlights that caregivers are not alone in feeling isolated and that social support can enhance their well-being.

READ THE ARTICLE | Hero Health

The Need for Human Connection in Digital Mental Health Care

Technology is transforming the therapeutic bond between therapists and clients in mental health care. While digital platforms offer convenient and stigma-free alternatives, there is a concern that the human connection and psychological value may be compromised.

READ THE ARTICLE | Scientific American

The Power of Human Connection on the Patient Journey

When it comes to chronic conditions, healthcare plans often focus on physical and mental health aspects, but the importance of social health is often overlooked.  Incorporating social health into care plans can lead to improved overall well-being.

READ THE ARTICLE | Hero Health

Building Empathy in Healthcare

A Q&A with Dr. Helen Riess of Harvard Medical School about her efforts to nurture empathy among health care workers.

READ THE ARTICLE | Greater Good Magazine

Listen

Stories of COVID-19: Loss of Physical Touch

This series begins in New York City, the center of the early days of the pandemic, with a story from Harvey Katz, one of the hosts and creators of Take Two Storytelling. In this story, Harvey, a brand-new nurse, is thrust into the hectic environment of a Brooklyn ICU at the onset of the pandemic. Harvey’s story is followed by an interview with social scientist Kasley Killam, on the impact of the loss of physical contact due to the pandemic.

HEAR IT HERE | Story Collider Podcast

Return to the Social Health Toolkit to learn how you can deepen your relationships with family, friends, coworkers, and neighbors.