Loneliness Relief: Creating a House of Belonging for Connection & Wellbeing (Learning to Love Well Series) [25]

In this episode, we're turning to our fifth lesson of loving well, which is about the power of belonging. This lesson may be the easiest to sell. We all want to belong, and we always have. Even the introverts and self-proclaimed lone wolves, we want a pack of other introverts and lone wolves to call on, even if just to complain about extroverts or social butterflies. About: The Joy Lab Podcast is an Ambie-nominated podcast that blends science and soul to help you cope better with stress, anxiety, and depression. It's hosted by integrative psychiatrist Dr. Henry Emmons and holistic mental health researcher Dr. Aimee Prasek. The podcast is best paired with the Joy Lab Program.   Bonus: spread some joy and keep this podcast ad-free by donating (Joy Lab is powered by the nonprofit Pathways North and your donations are tax-deductible).   Listen & follow the Joy Lab Podcast on your favorite listening app: Spotify | Apple | YouTube   Like and follow Joy Lab on Socials: Instagram | LinkedIn   Key Takeaways: We may lose brain cells as we age, but that's not the end of the story. Neurogenesis is on our side and we can support that process of new cell growth.  New cells need connections to grow. Humans need connections as well.  Harry Harlow's unethical experiments... demonstrating that humans NEED connection and support for development. No matter how old you are, social connections and support are essential for more optimal resilience and mental health.  How many "close friends" does research suggest you need for optimal wellbeing? Just 3-5. Significant others count here, close family members... essentially, 3-5 people who you feel you could lean on in a crisis.  In line with that ideal number of close friends, there are max loads for friendships beyond that small circle of close friends (don't let social media trick you into thinking more is better). Build your house of belonging, your circle of close friends, as carefully as you would build your dream house.   Links Mentioned: David Whyte's website Harlow, H., et. al (1965). Total social isolation in monkeys. More on Dunbar's numbers (from the Atlantic). Hall, J. (2018). How many hours does it take to make a friend? Please remember that this content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program. Please see our terms for more information.   If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call the NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. - 10 p.m., ET. OR text "HelpLine" to 62640 or email NAMI at [email protected]. Visit NAMI for more. You can also call or text SAMHSA at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org