Social Participation
What is Social Participation?
Social participation refers to talking to or completing activities with other people. These people may include friends, family, community organizations and so much more.1
Social participation plays an important role in your health especially when it comes to your mental health.1
Social Participation and Domestic Violence
Survivors of domestic violence often experience social isolation which refers to feeling alone and separated from other people. Isolation is a strategy used by perpetrators to keep control in relationships. It can often happen slowly but perpetrators may separate you from friends, family, community groups, and activities you once loved to do.1-2 Even after leaving a domestic violence situation, survivors may have difficulty getting back into social activities due to:1
- Mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression
- Increased responsibilities caring for children or loved ones
- Moving to new places
- Financial difficulties
- Decreased energy
Strategies for Improving Social Participation
There are several different strategies you can use to improve social participation. Click on the icons below to learn more.2
Key Takeaways
- Social participation refers to talking to or completing activities with other people.
- Survivors of domestic violence often experience social isolation which refers to feeling alone and separated from other people.
- Strategies for improving social participation include:
- Connecting with yourself: reflect on your past social participation in a journal and complete the leisure interest survey
- Connecting with friends and family: reflect on your past relationships and brainstorm who you would like to reach out to.
- Planning an activity: pick an activity you would like to complete with your social supports
- Joining a community group or organization: consider joining a community, support, spiritual, school-based, and volunteer group. Use FindHelp to find options near you.