Mental Health Awareness ● Sensibilisation à la santé mentale 31 Community and mental health Communities can play a significant role in mental health. A community is a group of people who have a shared interest, identity, and sense of belonging. When people feel like they are part of a community, it can make a big impact on their health and wellbeing. Being around other people, socializing, and getting to know one another can sharpen memory, improve cognitive skills, promote well-being, and increase positive emotions. Common types of communities are: - sports teams, - hobby clubs including books, knitting, or trivia, - religious or spiritual groups, - volunteer organizations, or - places of residence such as a neighbourhood, town, or city. Relationships built within a community can improve your mental health offering a sense of: Belonging: Being part of something makes you feel attached and accepted, and can play a role in your identity through a shared understanding of your values and beliefs. When you feel like you belong, you feel like an appreciated member of the community that accepts you for who you are. Support: Having people to lean on during difficult times can be lifesaving.When someone has a strong support system of friends and family, it makes them less likely to experience anxiety, depression, or substance use. Purpose: People are often able to find a sense of purpose when they become involved and engaged in a community. This can help to build feelings of well-being and improve mental health. Image by pvproductions - www.freepik.com
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