How to Use Social Media to Build a Community

Over the past few decades, social scientists have gone beyond the evidence of extreme social deprivation to demonstrate a clear link between social relationships and health in the general population. Adults who are more socially connected are healthier and live longer than their more isolated peers.

With the average person now spending over two hours a day on various social media platforms, it’s only natural that this turn to this digital world is to build communities. Social relationships—both quantity and quality—affect mental health, health behavior, physical health, and mortality risk. Studies have shown that the most socially isolated Americans are those at the greatest risk of poor health and early mortality.

Being a part of a community can make us feel as though we are a part of something greater than ourselves. It can give us opportunities to connect with people, to reach for our goals, and makes us feel safe and secure. A strong community provides an environment of safety and security. For example, social media can be a safe space to get support and discuss health!

Though the impersonal nature of connecting with others from behind a screen receives criticism, the anonymity of social media allows users to talk about topics that are too painful or embarrassing to talk about in person. The online forum can provide a safe space for users to build a community. For example, Facebook groups offer an environment for like-minded people to share health struggles.

These groups give users a place to ask questions without judgment. This type of emotional support could have powerful physical effects, too, since social connection improves overall health.

Chronic diseases – such as diabetes, cancer, asthma, and heart disease – are leading causes of death and disability. The Liu Foundation offers philanthropic The app and video series promoting evidence-based lifestyle habits to prevent chronic diseases. Harvard, Stanford, and CDC’s Public Health findings into an easy-to-use behavior conditioning app and series of lifestyle motivation videos to prevent chronic diseases.

Living It Up Anywhere

The idea of living your best life can be done anywhere, at any time, and all it really takes is a mindset shift. Take it one core lifestyle habit at a time, whether that is eating healthy and less, daily exercise, quitting bad habits, getting a routine checkup, or being positive. Take a chance today to Live It Up!