The Singapore Family Physician
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                                    Vol 42 No. 1 - Self-Care Techniques
                                
                            
                        
                    
                    Social Connectedness in Physical, Mental and Social Health
                            
                                
                                    The Singapore Family Physician
                                    Vol 42
                                    No 1
                                    - Self-Care Techniques
                                
                            
                        
                    
                                31
                                
                                    - 35
                                
                            
                        
                                
                                    1 January 2016
                                
                            
                        
                                0377-5305
                            
                        We are constantly reminded to take care of ourselves. We need a healthy and balanced diet, with regular exercises, and good quality rest. However, research has shown that social connectedness also plays an essential and critical function to our physical and mental well-being. Many studies have shown that lack of social connection is a predictor of social isolation, resulting in greater detriment to health. Strong social connectedness is associated with increased longevity, strengthening of ones’ immune system, faster recovery from disease and, hence, a lengthening of one’s life. Studies have also shown that people who feel more connected to others in relationships tend to generate a positive feedback loop in communicating and maintaining healthy social and emotional well-being with others in the family, workplace and community. This decreases the propensity to antisocial behaviour, isolation behaviour or poor mental health. Individuals with strong connectedness were observed to have lower rates of anxiety and depression; and higher self-esteem and were more empathic towards self and others, resulting in better emotional and psychological well-being. Social connectedness is a broad topic and can be reviewed from various perspectives. This article will review the concept from a psychological perspective of self, exploring the importance of practicing compassion intervention in social connectedness and self-care. 
                        