The importance of social connection
A message from Australian War Widows NSW
Did you know that social isolation takes a toll on health even more than smoking, obesity or alcohol consumption? We’ve always known that socialising with friends is good for the soul, but now science is telling us that it is also crucial for our minds and overall wellbeing.
The Greater Good magazine defines social connection as ‘the feeling that you belong to a group and generally feel close to other people’.
Australian War Widows NSW CEO, Renee Wilson, highlights the innate human craving for social connection and how social connection has been at the heart of its organisation for over 70 years: ‘AWWNSW was created for the very reason to bring together the widows of war veterans, so they could support each other and strengthen their individual voices,’ Renee said.
It is in the spirit of bringing peers together that our organisation evolved through the years. And today we offer our programs and services to all families of former and current ADF personnel.
Launched in early 2023, Our Space is a new and much needed social connection program available to defence and veterans’ families.
Recognising the burdens faced by families supporting ADF personnel, who are often isolated, Our Space aims to be a home to them. These families now need each other more than ever and Our Space aspires to bridge gaps, providing a platform for families to connect, share experiences, and form lasting friendships.
‘The families of veterans and contemporary widows need a place to find each other and a reason to connect,’ Renee said. ‘That reason might be learning a new skill, receiving information or developing knowledge. And that’s exactly what we’re creating with Our Space – a safe place and a reason for the families of veterans to come together and forge new friendships.’
A strong body of evidence supports the positive effects of social connection, helping guard against challenges like depression and burnout, which are particularly relevant to defence and veteran families. Meaningful connections can build a sense of belonging and purpose, addressing loneliness and boosting mental health.
Families of veterans often struggle to find community, access services, and have their needs addressed within the veteran community. We hope Our Space will change that.
Our Space is your space. Join Our Space online and keep up to date on our faceto- face events in NSW and the ACT visit the Our Space Group by ASWW NSW on Facebook or scan the QR code on this page.
Image: AWWNSW CEO Renee Wilson (middle) with AWWNSW Board Director Rachel Martin (right) and Debra Banks (left) at the Our Space Sydney Launch in 2023.