Finding Community Helps Improve Mental Wellness

Mental health greatly influences the quality of our daily lives.  Just as we take care of our physical selves,  we  also need to pay attention to our mental health.  One way to maintain a healthy mental state is through the sense of community that we get when we participate in groups. Community is all about connection and acceptance and support.  Having meaningful connections can help us feel accepted and cared for and can reduce feelings of isolation.

Community provides us with a sense of belonging–a group with which you identify.Community is a place where you are embraced and appreciated for your own unique qualities.

Community also provides us with support.   Knowing that there are people who support you can help you feel cared for and safe.  It can also improve your outlook on life.

Community and groups can also provide a sense of purpose.  Being there for others, helping when needed and having a focus can add meaning to life.

Being part of a group filled with other peers to bounce your thoughts and opinions off of provides a place where you can be yourself, ask questions, express yourself, learn and enjoy yourself. Group experiences can help you make better decisions and grow your capacity for empathy and more meaningful relationships.

Finding people with whom you can connect is vital for your mental health.  CBB and many other local organizations offer groups that you might want to consider such as knotting, hiking, mahj jong, and meditation groups.  Please feel free to reach out to our Mental Wellness Committee chair, Lynn Altschul, to learn more about the opportunities for community connections through CBB.