by Nancy Bergeron, Registered Psychologist
Being part of a community can have a positive effect on mental health and emotional wellbeing. Community involvement provides a sense of belonging and social connectedness. It can also offer extra meaning and purpose to everyday life.
Communities can exist or be created from a shared location, hobbies, lived experiences and backgrounds, or a common cause. For many people, communicating with others through online forums, social media, or in person, can help them to have a healthier mindset, improved self-worth, and greater enjoyment of life.
This past weekend, as I walked my dog along a street I’ve walked hundreds of times, I was struck by how fortunate I am to have community. I don’t mean ‘living in a community’ I mean real community with others. According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary community can be defined as “a unified body of individuals: people of common interests living in a particular area; A social state or condition: joint ownership or participation, common character or social activity; Society at large.” The community was setting up for a multi-family garage sale. As I walked along, I was greeted, as was my dog, with happy salutations, smiles and waves. Later that day this particular street would be holding it’s 2nd Annual Block Party so everyone was in good spirits and the excitement was palpable. How fortunate was I to have an invite even though this was not my street!
I happily joined in the festivities later that day. The demographic was certainly diverse consisting of young families with children, Gen Xers, Baby Boomers, and wise, experienced older adults. We had immigrants from Hungary and Poland; French Canadians, Newfoundlanders, LGBTQ2+ families, and born-and-raised Calgarians. However, what truly stood out for me was the unity of this gathering. My heart was warmed by the care the youth and adults had for the long-retired seniors. Some that are now challenged with health issues or just the effects of aging. It was important that they were a part of the party. Chairs and shade were reserved for them. Food was plated and served to them. Older children looked out for, and entertained, the younger children.
I overheard discussions of the past winter. How certain community members took it upon themselves to make sure everyone’s sidewalks were cleared, and especially the walks and driveways of our seniors or less abled. Knowing you are cared for and part of the community goes a long way for the state of one’s mental health and wellbeing. This was very apparent to me as I listened, and observed the care shared within this community.
I challenge all of you to rise to the occasion and integrate yourself into a community whether it is by geography, shared interests, or concern of others. Create community. Create meaning. Create good mental health.
“Mental Health is a state of well-being in which every individual realizes his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community.” – World Health Organization
