We all go through hard times, and at every age it seems. Many times we can all find that during our times of hardship we may shut other people out, keep to ourselves more, or even withdraw from what we enjoy the most. But the truth is during these times is when we need people the most. Whether it is someone to talk to, sit with, laugh with or cry with. Being social, can benefit our lives in numerous different ways.

People often overlook the importance of being around people. If someone is shy or anti-social it’s often written off because it’s just “the way they are.” However, there are many health benefits of being social. Many studies have been conducted on the health benefits of being social and most will agree that social isolation is associated with poor health. A study conducted in 2003 found in Perspectives in Biology and Medicine claims that people who are socially isolated possess a less efficient system to repair and maintain physiological functioning.

Being around family and friends can actually help reduce stress. Laughter is proven to do good things for your body, so get out and laugh with your friends. Laughing alone acts as a stress reducer. So add that laughter with an enjoyable environment and you’ve got a powerful stress reducer.

Those who are socially isolated are more prone to loneliness. Loneliness is often an indicator in the beginning stages of depression. But when people get out in their communities and become active with their friends and others, the loneliness slips away. It is important to have that social support in order to stay away from feelings of loneliness. And with that support system comes more opportunities to be active and the accountability to actually follow through.

So the next time you see someone who shy’s away from Social Activities, try taking the time to connect with them and help push each other into being more active and social together.