The Importance of Community
In today’s whirlwind of modern life, where stress, uncertainty, and challenges accompany us daily, we have endeavored to explore the importance of community for the mental health of individuals. In a time of constant change and rapid technological development, the question of belonging and inclusion in a community comes to the forefront of modern society. Han (2015) describes how technological progress has made communication easier, but at the same time, it has created the illusion of connection, which is often shallow and superficial, lacking true content and deep mutual support. He also warns that, in the digital age, more and more people are ‘alone together,’ meaning that they are physically present, but their interpersonal interactions are limited and superficial, lacking real, deeper connection.
Communities play a key role in shaping an individual’s identity, providing support, and creating space for interaction and growth. Some time ago, we conducted a short survey, curious about how different individuals perceive community and related belonging. We placed great emphasis on the feelings of belonging, as well as opinions on the missing parts of current communities.
What do research studies say about community?
Community is not only the space where we live, but it is also a source of support, understanding, and connection. Research (Michalski C. A. et al., 2020) shows that involvement in various communities positively affects individuals’ mental health. A sense of belonging to a community gives us a sense of security and helps build our self-esteem. Han (2015) emphasizes that in modern society, solid communities are no longer being established, as individuals are increasingly withdrawing into themselves due to increased individualism. He also notes that changes in lifestyle and the functioning of modern society lead to the loss of traditional communities and support, which can result in feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Dr. John Cacioppo, a renowned neuroscientist at the University of Chicago, highlighted in his studies (2008) that social isolation and loneliness can negatively impact our mental health, even to the point of causing serious issues such as depression and anxiety. His research showed that a sense of connection and social support reduces stress responses in the brain, thereby reducing the risk of mental health issues.
Diversity within a community is its greatest strength. Age, gender, ethnic, and cultural diversity contribute to the richness of experiences and perspectives that individuals bring to the community. Each of us plays an important role in shaping the community in which we live. Through our actions, relationships, and collaboration, we can contribute to establishing support, understanding, and empathy within the community.
Survey on the Importance of Community
The majority of survey participants (93.5%) expressed a sense of belonging to the community, indicating a strong bond between individuals and their communities. This may stem from various factors, including geographical proximity, shared interests, cultural connection, or support during difficult times. However, 6.5% of participants expressed that they do not feel part of a community. Understanding the reasons behind this can help create more inclusive communities that provide support and connection for all members.
Community is a fundamental building block of our mental health. It is a place where we find support, understanding, and connection that help us overcome life’s challenges and face the uncertainty of the future. The survey results revealed the diversity and complexity of belonging to a community in modern society. Understanding these perspectives can help shape more inclusive and supportive communities that create space for the development and growth of individuals in their environment. At the same time, they emphasize the importance of respecting and accepting the different experiences and perspectives that individuals bring to the community.
“Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much” – Helen Keller
In conclusion, we can affirm that community is crucial for mental health and well-being in modern society. As research and insights from authors like Byung Chul Han show, traditional forms of community are changing, and in the modern world, we face challenges in maintaining deep human connections. Nonetheless, it remains true that being part of a community is a source of support, understanding, and connection that can significantly impact our mental health. Therefore, it is vital to nurture and co-create communities that allow for inclusion, support, and mutual connection, thus building better and more connected communities for the future.
Community is a fundamental building block of our mental health. It is a place where we find support, understanding, and connection that help us overcome life’s challenges and face the uncertainty of the future. The survey results revealed the diversity and complexity of belonging to a community in modern society. Understanding these perspectives can help shape more inclusive and supportive communities that create space for the development and growth of individuals in their environment. At the same time, they emphasize the importance of respecting and accepting the different experiences and perspectives that individuals bring to the community.