Community, what does it mean to you?
The year’s theme for Mental Health Awareness is Community, but in this day and age how many of us experience what Community means in the traditional sense of the word? Do we find a sense of Community in our neighbourhoods and workplaces, or do we seek it out in online forums and groups like choirs? One thing’s for sure when a Community band together great things can happen helping to foster a sense of belonging, reduce feeling of isolation and giving us a feeling of purpose and meaning.
It’s also possible that you’re part of a Community without really realising that you are! As an example we recently had a power cut overnight and into the next day at home and living between two elderly neighbours that know on nodding terms we found ourselves reaching out to make sure that all was well and that they didn’t need anything that we could help with. It turns out both needed a little help and now, rather than being on nodding terms we find ourselves with 2 new friends that we look out for and love chatting to over the fence on a slow weekend day.
If you’re struggling to find that innate sense of belonging it can be hard to know where to start with finding that sense of Community. However there are so many varied ways to find it. It might take you outside of your comfort zone briefly, but being part of a group of supportive people, having similar experiences can be so grounding for our mental health. GOV.UK is one very simple way to find local community groups, or check out this article from Local Trust on finding and helping groups in your area.
Sports
Fancy a run out at the weekend, or want to support your local team? There are a myriad of sports clubs that you can find locally, from ball games to Judo. These clubs don’t just need players and participants, they rely heavily on volunteers in their communities to arrange matches, referee games, make match teas, marshal run routes and spread the word. Sport can be an incredibly bonding experience and a hugely supportive environment for many.
Performing arts
Love to tread the boards or sing your heart out? The rise of choirs and theatre groups around the country is testimony to the power of Community. Coming together locally to raise the roof with your singing, tap dancing, acting or any other number of performing arts creates strong bonds of trust with one another.
Locally
There are always local groups that would love to have your help in many different ways. From helping distribute food parcels at your local food bank to getting involved with a local youth group that rely heavily on volunteer help to stay open for our youngsters.
Online
You’re probably already part of a Community online without even realising, you’re here after all! With a forum for everything you can find a great deal of support if you seek it out online. From crafting and photography to beer making and gardening, interacting with others on social platforms and forums can be a really positive experience. It’s a great opportunity to share your own experiences and learn from others too.
Where else have you found your sense of Community? We’d love to hear from you, drop us a comment below and be part of the Nourish Community!