Why You Should Be Checking In On Your Friends More Often
The pandemic has brought us many challenges. Perhaps the biggest challenge has been maintaining a healthy social life. The isolation that comes with being in our homes can take a toll on our well-being. That's why it's perhaps never been more important to check in with your friends by sending a text, a card, or an email. If you are feeling isolated, chances are that you are not the only one in your family or friend group with those feelings. It's incredibly important to maintain friendships for your mental well-being and an enjoyable life.
The pandemic has definitely tested us in many ways, and a product of being isolated in our homes is a great loneliness. According to the American Psychological Association, many of us are currently feeling the weight of a loneliness epidemic. Connecting with your friends in fun ways can benefit them and you. While we all need a little alone time, think back to the last time you contacted a dear friend, an old colleague, or a distant family member. If it has been a while, it's a good idea to send a quick text message or email letting them know you are thinking about them. The benefits may surprise you.
Benefits of checking in
Contacting your friends and connecting with them may seem like a small act, but it could benefit you in so many ways. We are social beings, and many of us thrive from a healthy social life. Greater Good Magazine mentions that people who manage to keep friendships throughout their lives live longer. If you've ever received a surprise text or phone call from a friend with whom you haven't spoken in some time, you can see why this is true. Friendships give us an injection of happiness that can take away some of the stresses of everyday life. The New York Times adds that even small check-ins can benefit you and your friends more than you think. Small check-ins are brief calls, a small gift, or a text out of the blue.
Checking in on your friends is not only good for your mental well-being, but it can also let them know someone cares. There are many people struggling with mental health wellness, especially since the pandemic, and cases of anxiety and depression are on the rise. By showing someone that they are worth the time it takes for a letter, a text, or a phone call, you could be doing more good than you know for their self-confidence and self-worth (via Ty Alexander). This may even inspire them to pay it forward to another friend.
Don't hesitate to communicate
Have you ever hesitated to send a text because you were worried you were bothering your friends? This is a common reason for disconnection, and it just simply isn't true. In a 2022 study done by The University of Pittsburgh in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, they found that checking in with friends in small ways added up big time. They found that people grossly underestimate how much a check-in is appreciated. Recipients of the message have the benefit of surprise, the warmth of being remembered, and the excitement of talking to another person socially.
No matter the path you take in reaching out to your friends, both you and the recipient of the text, letter, or gift benefit in countless ways. Life is difficult, especially lately, and connecting with another person is a way to keep you smiling and laughing and enjoying life that much more. The next time you think about reaching out, follow through and experience the benefits of human connection.