8.8.4: Social Cohesion
In general, the sense of solidarity that a community has, how “tight-knit” it is, and how strongly the members feel they can support and rely on each other, all have positive impacts on health. The idea that neighbors and community members can be trusted to take actions for the common good, and can be relied on in times of need, are characteristics of social cohesion. Social cohesion also encompasses social capital (which includes connecting community members with resources), and social networks - which are multiple sources of support, whether emotional or physical. To whom will you turn if your car breaks down and you need a ride? If you knew of a good job opening, who would you share it with? Where would you go if your home was subject to a natural disaster? When community members share mutual trust and respect, they are able to work together to better their lives. This collective efficacy is associated with lower rates of neighborhood violence, and better access to things like healthcare, health-supporting foods and physical activity options. Health-related behaviors - whether positive like physical activity, or negative like smoking - also tend to be influenced by social networks ( Social Cohesion - Healthy People 2030 , n.d.).
On the flipside of social cohesion, loneliness and isolation are significant drivers of poor health. In adults over the age of 50, loneliness increases the risk of dementia, heart disease, stroke, depression, anxiety, and death from all causes. Those that are at higher risk for isolation include minoritized populations, immigrants (particularly first-generation), and LGBTQ folks. Stigma and discrimination prevent the development of trust and strong social-support networks, which in turn isolates people in the community ( Loneliness and Social Isolation Linked to Serious Health Conditions , 2022). Although most of the research on loneliness addresses older adulthood, it can also significantly impact young adults. Self-reported loneliness increased during the COVID-19 pandemic - particularly among young adults and low-income households - and has gradually tapered off since (Witters, 2023).