Gather ’Round for Good Health

Deanna Shuler has worked for Memorial Health System for over 21 years. Her educational and professional experience includes athletic training, strength and conditioning, and most recently, becoming a certified health coach.

For decades, it has been well understood that eating healthy foods, avoiding tobacco, and getting enough physical activity are good for your health. But did you know that having close social bonds with people is one of the strongest factors in determining longevity?

Social connections and positive relationships have a tremendous impact on our physical, mental, and emotional health. Think about the feeling you get after catching up with an old friend, or the joy that comes from a family gathering during the holidays. You may not realize it, but those interactions could actually be saving your life.

Studies show that connecting with others can help reduce anxiety and depression and better regulate our stress hormones, improving gut health, insulin regulation, and immune function. Laughing together, companionship, and having emotional support can keep our key stress hormone—cortisol—in check, while boosting “feel-good” hormones like dopamine and serotonin. Even brief, positive interactions can lower blood pressure and heart rate.

Additionally, when you surround yourself with people whose wellness goals align with yours, you’re far more likely to stick to healthy lifestyle habits. If you have coworkers who are trying to eat healthier lunches, for example, you’ll be more likely to do the same. If your goal is to quit smoking, spending time with non-smokers can reinforce your motivation to quit.

Our habits often mirror those of the people around us. Surround yourself with friends, coworkers, and family members who help you stay accountable and positively influence your daily routines.

Here are a few simple ways to strengthen social connections and improve your health:

• Get an exercise buddy. You’ll be less likely to skip the gym if you’ve made plans to meet someone there.

• Invite a neighbor over to meal prep. Cook together for the week and share the healthy dishes you create.

• Volunteer in your community. Local food pantries, animal shelters, and service organizations are always looking for help—and you’ll likely get some exercise in the process.

• Schedule regular group calls. Plan a weekly or monthly phone or video chat to stay connected with friends or family who live far away.

Think of your health as a shared experience. Gathering with people you enjoy spending time with can give your quality of life a boost and lead to many years of happiness and well-being.

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  Letter From the CEO: Caring For Our Community, Season After Season

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  Progress in Motion at Our Women and Children’s Hospital

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  Breaking Ground on Sistersville General Hospital

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  Funding Vital Therapy Equipment: Judy Heinrich’s Story

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  Two Years of World-Class Expertise