The role that social connection plays in our mental wellbeing can’t be overstated and, to that end, Lakelands Public Health is taking that key message on the road to 18 library branches in the region.
Until May 10th, Connection Corner displays will be featured at library branches in the City of Kawartha Lakes, and Haliburton and Northumberland counties. The interactive displays highlight the benefits of social connection, how to build those connections, and provide information on programs and resources to aid in that effort.
Lakelands health promoter Joanne Brewster says library branches are the ideal location for the Mental Health Week initiative in that they are community hubs where events and programs that bring people together are habitually held. She notes social connection is important for a few reasons.
Brewster says those living in rural areas face a particular challenge when it comes to making and maintaining social connections, but notes taking even the smallest steps reaps considerable benefits.
Brewster says the forced isolation presented by the COVID pandemic years brought home our collective need to make social connection to the benefit of our mental and physical health.
To find a Connection Corner display near you, visit www.lakelandsph.ca/connection. Meanwhile, more information about ways to improve social connection can be found at www.socialconnectionguidelines.org.
(Written by: Paul Rellinger)
