What is Social Wellbeing?

Wellbeing means different things to different people.  Below are two examples of Social Wellbeing that this programme addresses:

Social isolation is a complex issue, not necessarily related to the amount of contact with other people. It is possible to feel lonely when surrounded by people It can take the form of social loneliness, the lack of a network of friends and neighbours and emotional loneliness, which is the lack of a ‘significant other’ and a close attachment. There are links between social isolation, health and social inequalities and health outcomes which together bring significant costs to health and social care services.

Mental wellbeing can be described as feelings of contentment, enjoyment, self-esteem, self-confidence and engagement with the world. Mental wellbeing underpins all aspects of living healthily including managing and recovering from illness and living with long-term conditions. It is also associated with numerous health, employment, family, and economically-related benefits. For example, higher levels of wellbeing are associated with; decreased risk of disease, illness and injury, better immune functioning, speedier recovery and increased longevity. Individuals with high levels of mental wellbeing are more productive at work and are more likely to contribute to their communities.

Increased wellbeing in the population increases the resilience of both the individual and the community, and people’s quality of life. The body of research evidence indicates that improved wellbeing has the following benefits:

•       Improved resilience

•       Reduced levels of mental disorder and reduced suicide risk

•       Improved educational outcomes

•       Increased productivity at work

•       Less antisocial behaviour, violence and crime

•       Stronger social relationships

•       Higher income

•       Better general health

•       Fewer medically unexplained symptoms