I had the wonderful honor of receiving the KY Society for Clinical Social Work’s Arvil Reeb Lifetime achievement award! It’s based on my history of stepping up, joining with others and taking initiative to create positive change.
In the documentary, “Join or Die”, about social psychologist Robert Putman’s theory in “Bowling Alone” he notes that less community engagement is at the heart of our current cultural crisis.* In my case, I see that when you step up, join others, and take initiative you create positive change, which is much needed now.
Here are some thoughts on the value of stepping up, joining and taking initiative.
PROVIDES IDENTITY WITH LIKE MINDED PEOPLE
As TV, social media and phones eat up our free time, less of it goes to being engaged in social and group activities. People are lonelier than ever with mental health taking a toll. Joining groups enhances your sense of belonging and purpose – it is the antidote to much of the disconnect people feel today and helps civic life thrive.
PROVIDES MEANINGFUL ACTIVITY
Group affiliation provides context for meaningful activity. Statistically this is responsible for helping people age gracefully with fewer physical and mental health risks. Joining social groups, clubs and community organizations provides social engagement, meaning and context to life. I see this happening with the groups I’m involved with that seek social change and. around Lee’s music events, and my friend’s art exhibits.
INCREASES LIFE SATISFACTION
With more engagement, people experience lower rates of depression and anxiety and increased cognitive functioning. The Harvard Study of Adult Development and Robert Waldinger go further to say relationships are a predictor for healthy aging and life satisfaction. * The American Journal of Public Health studies demonstrate that social engagement reduces chronic disease and increases mental resilience. * I can attest that my engaging work and play keeps my mental and physical health, and life satisfaction very positive. And it’s certainly an honor to receive a lifetime achievement award!
Reach out if you’d like to explore this.
*Resources:
- https://joinordiefilm.com/
- Harvard Study of Adult Development: Waldinger, R. J., & Schulz, M. S. (2023). The Good Life: Lessons from the World’s Longest Scientific Study of Happiness. New York: Simon & Schuster
- American Journal of Public Health: Umberson, D., & Karas Montez, J. (2010). Social Relationships and Health: A Flashpoint for Health Policy. American Journal of Public Health, 100(9), 173–180.
