Our Mission Halcyon Home is a non-profit , non-denominational , charitable organization for battered women and their children whose mission is to : provide safe shelter and support services for victims of domestic violence , their children , and survivors of sexual assault ; promote community awareness and education to help prevent and break the cycle of violence ; provide an environment of encouragement , compassion , and support for all those we service .
Crisis / Support Line 1-800-284-9980 229-226-6666
Business Line 229-226-6682 P . O . Box 1838 • Thomasville , GA 31799
691849-1
WHY CONNECTIONS MATTER
Experts have consistently proven that those who are lonely deal with more mental health and physical problems than others with stronger connections . So , creating and maintaining positive relationships at home and at work can have a huge impact on our general well being . We ’ re also encouraged to reach out to professionals , as needed . People without these important bonds may become more reclusive , turning inward to deal with their problems . Emotional and physical wellness may suffer if they feel unable to cope .
THE SCIENCE OF LONELINESS
Depression sufferers have shown improvement with their symptoms once they started having more positive interactions with the world around them . At the same time , those who experience loneliness increase their risk of early death by a whopping 50 %, according to the American
Heart Association . Being isolated was also shown to increase coronary artery disease and stroke risks by as much as 32 %. Lonely people are often less active , and studies confirm that those who eat alone tend to have a less healthy diet .
GETTING INVOLVED AGAIN
If you ’ ve found yourself isolated , as so many have after emerging from the quarantine era , there are ways to slowly reconnect with friends , extended family and your community . Start by joining a local club or church . Call up somebody you haven ’ t seen in a while and arrange a fun activity . Rebook that long-delayed appointment with your mental health professional . Enroll in a fun class at the local community college , or sign up for a gym membership . Join a professional organization , where you ’ ll find people who share your work goals . Interacting with business owners or workers in your area can help smooth the way for a return to other social situations . hm
Spring 2023 • Health Matters 15