Throughout the month of February, the Be Well, Faith committee is sharing a weekly message based on information shared through the Minnesota Department of Health. The topics for these communications center on “connection as one of the most important things for our mental well-being.” Staying connected is one of the greatest challenges from COVID-19. These messages will focus on the importance of staying connected to our neighbors, loved ones, and the environment around us, and provide some tips on how to do that.

Connecting with others is one of the most important things we can do for our well-being. We are social creatures; connecting with others is essential for our survival.

Social connection lowers anxiety and depression, helps us regulate our emotions, and improves our self- esteem and empathy. 

Connecting in a pandemic is hard, especially when we are told to stay physically apart. Take a moment today to think about the connections that are most important to you. Jot down ideas on how you can connect with friends regularly, or schedule a regular call, video chat, or virtual game night with those you want to connect with. 

For some ideas, check out these resources:

Supporting Senior Mental Well-Being in Congregate Living, Minnesota Department of Health. 

Kind Action, SELspace.

Random Acts of Kindness Ideas, Random Acts of Kindness Foundation.

When connecting with those close to you, remember, it is OK to talk about how you are feeling. In fact, we should talk about our feelings. Especially during this pandemic, it is OK to not be OK. Reach out to a friend, family, neighbor, warm line, or crisis line if you want to talk. No concern is too small. Help is available and hope is possible.

Minnesota WarmLine Peer Support Connection: call or text 844-739-6369 (5 p.m. to 9 a.m.)

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-8255

“To make a difference in someone’s life, you don’t have to be brilliant, rich, beautiful or perfect. You just have to care.” – Mandy Hale, author and blogger

Be Well, Faith!