Benefits of community

In her recent book, The Age of Diagnosis, neurologist Suzanne O’Sullivan concludes that of all the things we can do to imprive our psychologoiscal wellbieng, being part of community is most improtant. She maintains that we are social creatrures and need real life connection, and encourages a monevtm away from the medcialisation of help.

As a psychologist who values community and connection, O’Sullian’s stance resonates for me. I love working with peeople in therapy and seeing them make change and grow stronger. Hwoever, I’m aware that individauls therapy is not for everyone and is often for a fixed time period.

Ideally, becoming part of groups helps us to develop a sense of eblonging and inner secuirty. It helps to stave off ffeelings of loneliness, which can impact our physical and mental health. IT may be a knitting group, games group at the local library, book club, or soccer team. Whatever it is, it helps!