Recently published research has found that intentionally recognizing positive life events and achievements while gathering for food and drink leaves people feeling more socially supported.
Feeling more socially supported, known medically as “perceived social support,” is the belief that you have a reliable social network that will be there for you during future negative events.
Research suggests that this belief is associated with an increased lifespan and decreased social anxiety and depression.
The new study found that when celebrations with three criteria – social gathering, eating and drinking, and intentionally marking a positive life event – increase perceived social support.
Taking time to congratulate someone for a life event – like a grandchild getting accepted to university, a child who’s bought their first home or had a promotion at work, an anniversary, a birthday etc. – may produce benefits for everybody involved.
Celebrations that increase perceived social support may be particularly important for places serving populations that are more at risk for loneliness and isolation, like long-term care facilities or community centers.
So, don’t be timid about suggesting a party to celebrate various occasions on a more regular basis. Getting together with people in a celebratory atmosphere to mark an event could have some important health benefits.
Of course, you don’t want to celebrate too frequently. Too much party food and drink could offset the benefits, as well as the fact you don’t want events to lose their lustre. But if you can maybe aim for a monthly celebration or so, you should be doing yourself, and those you care about, some good.