How to value community

Issue 61 l Eka’s Weekly Roundup (9 February 2024)

Feb 09, 2024

We’ve started reading The Good Life after rewatching Robert Waldinger’s TED talk (oldie but goodie!).

Following on from our newsletter last week on how we’re segmenting Consumer Health, we wanted to pick out the value of community and how it can influence health outcomes.

At Eka, we have already invested in Paired as part of this theme. Paired is a mobile app designed to improve relationship health, and is the leading player for romantic relationship management.

The link between your friends and your health outcomes 🗞️

Community has a material impact on our health and well-being*. The connections we have within our communities play a crucial role in shaping our physical, mental, and emotional health outcomes. Today, we dive into the realm of community health and social prescribing, exploring the science behind its significance and why nurturing strong community bonds is essential for our overall well-being.

The Science Behind Community and Health

Numerous studies have demonstrated the powerful influence of community on health outcomes (see reference list below). Individuals who reported feeling socially connected to their community experienced lower rates of mortality, regardless of other risk factors. This highlights the protective effect that strong community ties can have on our health, potentially even surpassing the benefits of individual health behaviors.

Recent research in Preventative Medicine showed that individuals who live in supportive communities characterized by trust, reciprocity, and social cohesion are more likely to engage in health-promoting behaviors such as regular exercise, healthy eating, and preventive healthcare.

The Impact on Physical & Mental Health

Beyond physical health, community also plays a pivotal role in our mental and emotional well-being. Studies have consistently shown that individuals who feel a sense of belonging and connection to their community are less likely to experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. This sense of belonging provides a buffer against the stresses of life, offering social support and a sense of purpose that are essential for maintaining optimal mental health.

Comparison of odds (ln OR) of decreased mortality across several conditions associated with mortality.

Moreover, research published in Psychiatry found that strong community ties can mitigate the harmful effects of stressful life events, such as job loss or bereavement, by providing a network of support and resources. In times of adversity, the solidarity of community can serve as a source of resilience, helping individuals cope more effectively with life's challenges.

Building a Healthier Community

Given the significant impact of community on health outcomes, it is clear that fostering strong community bonds should be a priority for individuals, organizations, and policymakers alike. The NHS introduced social prescribing in 2019 to help those with long-term conditions to get extra support outside NHS services.