Community begins with you

Read the latest issue of Care Matters around the importance of communities.

Community begins with you. A community is a group of people with something in common such as a location, background, common experience, needs or interests.

As we grow up so does the importance of having friends, relationships and being part of a community, but unfortunately for many this can be the most challenging part of growing up.

The feeling of being part of the community and not just part of your family is important as it can give a sense of being included and lead to the confidence to take part in opportunities as well as having benefits for your mental health and wellbeing.

The feeling of belonging can lead to a greater sense of happiness. It might take time, but is worth the effort as the alternative could result in being socially isolated.

Feeling isolated can bring loneliness, and even increase the risk of physical and mental problems.

Connecting with family and friends, volunteering, taking up a hobby or joining a group can help to reduce loneliness. Volunteering is a great way to develop your work skills and work experience while having fun, build up your confidence and lead to new friendships.

Good places to look for community activities and groups to join include:

• Local libraries and community centres
• Newspapers
• Noticeboards in shopping centres, and
• Health services.

Relationships and friendships are a basic human need. But friendships are unlike family relationships because we choose to enter into them. We choose the community to belong to and build relationships that could last a lifetime.

You don’t have to go along to community groups on your own. There are services in Mid Somerset that are welcoming and can offer support.