It takes a village to raise your wellness. Surrounding yourself with a positive community is one of the best things you can do for your mental health. Supportive networks, shared experiences, and a sense of belonging go a long way when you want to foster emotional resilience and overall well-being. In addition to support and social interaction, positive communities provide more opportunities to get exercise, education, and health resources. Learn how to find the right community for you, as well as how to engage in community-driven activities to boost your mental health and give back.
Mental Health Benefits of Positive Environments
A positive sense of community is directly correlated with lower levels of depression, stress, and anxiety. Feeling like you are part of a supportive network of people gives you confidence in yourself and your ability to cope with challenging situations. You have people in your corner who will not only listen and understand but who can offer resources to help with whatever issue you are facing.
Communities can also give you a sense of purpose. Whether you decide to volunteer at a soup kitchen, participate in local events like art festivals, or contribute to a charitable cause like a community garden, these activities can inspire you to engage with life more meaningfully. Having a purpose in life is associated with lower levels of anxiety and depression. With opportunities and people around you who believe in your potential, you can feel optimistic about your meaningful contribution to the world.
Established, vibrant communities are often better able to provide opportunities for you to get outside or join a gym or club. Physical activity boosts mental health by raising your self-esteem and lowering symptoms of mental health issues like depression, anxiety, addiction, and psychotic disorders. You can join a neighborhood walking club, go to a local gym, or take advantage of scenic trails in your community.
This exposure to nature helps mental wellness in and of itself. It has been found to improve your cognitive function and quality of sleep, both integral to overall well-being. The effects of depression and anxiety are also mitigated by spending time in nature. Finding a community to live in that provides easy access to green spaces can give you the motivation to be active and enjoy some fresh air. In addition, living in a walkable neighborhood offers not only greater access to the outdoors but also more opportunities to socialize, find meaningful opportunities, and garner support around you.
How To Find Supportive Communities
Where you choose to live is an inherently personal decision that depends on your goals. While the best community for you is a matter of personal choice, features of positive, supportive communities from rural to urban environments include plenty of green spaces, recreation facilities, and frequent community events. Note that if you prefer rural areas access to mental health services may be limited in those locations, so you may want to ensure that you can take advantage of services like telehealth.
You can also gauge a location’s positivity by checking out city rankings like the best and worst cities for mental health. While each resident’s experience will be unique, these overarching patterns can give you an idea of the community and why mental health issues may be more prevalent, such as limited access to care or amenities. For example, Denver, Colorado has ranked number one for mental health while Dallas, Texas ranks the lowest. However, you have to take into consideration the methodologies for forming these lists, such as only including large cities.
Moving is inherently stressful, so figuring out an ideal place to move will ease some of this emotional turbulence. Especially when moving to an unfamiliar area, it’s important to feel comfortable and optimistic. For instance, a big move may be better for your mental health and wellness in the long run. Just make sure you don’t start on the wrong foot. Preparing for a cross-country move should include weather considerations, decluttering your belongings, and working with a reliable moving company. A simpler move with well-packed items will make it easier to start fresh and give your mental health a much-needed reset in your new environment.
Once you’re settled in, you can start to engage in community activities. Even if you’re introverted, it’s important to take some time to familiarize yourself with your neighborhood, neighbors, local businesses, and organizations. You can check out the local parks and gyms, as well as look for online event calendars. Often, vibrant communities will have free events that you can attend to get a feel for your new environment and start on your journey to positivity.
How To Contribute to Positivity
Giving back to your community can only contribute to the positive outcomes it provides. It benefits you and your local area by reinforcing your purpose, making you feel helpful, and giving back to the community. Consider volunteering at a local animal shelter, joining a book club, or even organizing a mental health support group. Choosing a positive community to enmesh yourself within is a great start, but you can continue to build on that positivity. It’s important to contribute to your new, strong community by helping foster resilience, empathy, and shared growth.
