About the Author: My name is Nagnouma Sako. I’m a clinical intern at Allow Health LLC, completing my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My multicultural background has shaped who I am, enriching my perspective and deepening my appreciation for different worldviews. My journey into mental health comes after 10+ years in accounting and nonprofit management.
If you ask me, I haven’t strayed too far from my true passion-helping people-only now, I get to do it more intimately and directly!
This is my first blog and I’m looking forward to your interactions with me!
I’ve always loved the saying, “It takes a village to raise a child”-an African proverb that speaks to the power of support. I believe it applies to so much more than just child-rearing. But enough about villages… for now!
Lately, more and more research has highlighted the power of connection and community. But honestly, we didn’t need studies to tell us what we’ve always felt deep down-belonging matters.
With that said, I get why the idea of "community" might feel intimidating for some. If you’re someone who thrives on quiet and personal space (hey, introverts!), the thought of constantly being around people might sound exhausting. And if you’re someone who gets energized by social interactions (shout out to the extroverts!), the idea of deep, meaningful connection might still feel like a challenge. But no matter where you fall on the spectrum, the truth is, we all benefit from feeling like we’re part of something larger than ourselves.
Community isn’t just about being surrounded by people-it’s about support, shared experiences, and the comfort of knowing you’re not navigating life alone. Let me illustrate this with a few compelling examples.
Take grandparents who live with extended family, often surrounded by their grandchildren. Studies show they tend to be healthier and live longer. While they may have more free time, what truly makes a difference is the love, connection, and purpose they experience daily. That sense of belonging has profound effects on mental and physical well-being.
Now, let’s look at postpartum care in many cultures. After childbirth, a mother is often given 40 days (or more) to rest and recover, with family and friends stepping in to help. This isn’t just a kind tradition-it’s a recognition that childbirth is an intense physical and emotional experience. This structured support system ensures the mother heals properly, reducing stress and fostering a sense of security and connection.
What resonates most with me is how connection heals. It fuels motivation, growth, and resilience. In mental health, for instance, having a support network-whether through therapy, support groups, or mindfulness practices is essential. We need others to lean on, and that’s okay.
I’m not suggesting you need a massive village behind you (though wouldn’t that be amazing?). But having just three or four reliable people can make a world of difference. These are the ones who listen, encourage, and hold you accountable. And it’s perfectly fine if you don’t find all of this in one person-mental health professionals, mentors, or close friends can each play a role.
Connection isn’t about constant socializing or grand gestures-it’s about knowing there’s someone who sees you, supports you, and walks alongside you. No matter your personality, lifestyle, or circumstances, meaningful connections will always bring value. It’s how we grow, heal, and thrive. So, wherever you are on your journey, remember you don’t have to do it all alone.
We’re hosting a free webinar on February 26, 2025, at 6:30 PM, where we’ll share techniques to help you build meaningful connections, stay connected, and break free from limiting beliefs that may be holding you back from seeking support-even for the simplest things.
References:
Study: Babysitting The Grandkids Can Mean a Longer Life
Piperata, B. A. (2008). Forty days and forty nights: a biocultural perspective on postpartum practices in the Amazon. Social science & medicine, 67(7), 1094-1103.
Schedules for home visits in the early postpartum period – PMC
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