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Imagine walking into your doctor’s office feeling the weight of stress, anxiety, or even depression. You expect the usual—a prescription for medication or a referral to therapy. But instead, your doctor hands you a prescription for something a little more unexpected: an art class, a hiking group, or a cycling club. This is the power of social prescriptions, and it’s a concept that’s quietly revolutionizing how we approach mental health and well-being.
On Episode 2 of Seeking the Overlap, I sat down with
, journalist and author of The Connection Cure, to talk about how social prescriptions—referrals to community activities—are being used to address some of our most pressing health concerns. Whether it’s loneliness, anxiety, or even physical conditions like type 2 diabetes, social prescriptions are providing a new pathway for healing through meaningful participation and community.What Is a Social Prescription?
The concept of social prescriptions originated in the UK as a response to an escalating public health crisis—loneliness. As Julia explained, loneliness isn’t just about being physically alone; it’s about feeling a gap between the relationships we have and the connections we crave. And the toll this takes on our health is immense.
In the UK, social prescriptions became an innovative solution to address this growing issue. Instead of just focusing on treating symptoms with medication, doctors began prescribing activities that foster social connections. These activities ranged from art classes to cycling groups, and their impact has been profound. People who felt isolated and disconnected found new communities, built relationships around shared interests, and, in many cases, saw significant improvements in both their mental and physical health.
And here’s the good news: this practice is starting to make its way to the U.S. as well, with groups like Social Prescribing USA leading the charge.
Why Does It Work?
At its core, a social prescription does two key things: it reconnects you with something that brings you joy, and it gives you a community to share that joy with. As Julia shared in the episode, the power of these activities isn’t just in doing something fun—it’s in the connection that comes from doing it alongside others who share that passion.
We discussed the importance of third places—those spaces outside of home and work where people can gather and connect. These used to be things like bowling leagues, church groups, or social clubs, but many of those spaces have disappeared over time. Today, people are looking for ways to find their own version of a "third place" where they can show up, be seen, and connect with others in a meaningful way. Social prescriptions help people find that place again.
One of my favorite moments in our conversation was when Julia talked about how people bond “shoulder to shoulder” rather than “face to face.” When we’re working together toward a common goal, whether it’s learning how to ride a bike or creating art, the connection feels more natural and less forced. It’s not about sitting down with the pressure to make small talk; it’s about simply showing up and engaging in a shared activity.
Breaking Through the Barriers of Loneliness
Loneliness doesn’t discriminate. One of the most eye-opening things Julia shared is that loneliness isn’t just something that affects the elderly or those physically isolated. In fact, many of the people she interviewed for her book were in their 20s, 30s, and 40s. These individuals were active, able-bodied, and living in urban areas—but they still felt deeply disconnected.
It’s not that they didn’t want connection; they just didn’t know how or where to find it. Social prescriptions offer a solution by giving people a structured way to meet others and form meaningful relationships. It’s not about forcing a friendship but creating opportunities to engage around a shared interest. And as Julia emphasized, these activities don’t have to be grand or intimidating—they can be as simple as joining a local book club or attending a pottery class.
Moving Beyond Small Talk
A key takeaway from this episode is the importance of moving beyond small talk to foster real, authentic connections. Julia highlighted a group called Skip the Small Talk, which encourages people to dive deeper into conversations and share more meaningful aspects of their lives. When we ask questions like, “What’s something you’ve changed your mind about recently?” we open the door to real dialogue, rather than just surface-level chit-chat.
It’s not about sharing your deepest secrets but finding that sweet spot of vulnerability where you can connect with others on a more authentic level. As Julia pointed out, we all have rich inner lives and past experiences, but we rarely get to share them. By skipping the small talk and embracing more substantive conversations, we can feel seen and heard in a way that deeply nourishes us.
Virtual Connections Count Too
While many social prescriptions are in-person activities, Julia made an important point about the role virtual connections can play, especially for those who may not have the ability to leave their homes easily. I shared my own experience participating in the Blue Sky Black Sheep virtual writing group where I’ve formed some of the deepest connections of my life—all without ever meeting most of the members in person. Virtual spaces can be just as powerful when it comes to fostering connection, especially when done with intention.
Your Next Step
If you’re feeling disconnected or stuck in a rut, consider this your invitation to explore a social prescription of your own. What’s something that used to light you up as a kid? What activity makes you lose track of time? And how can you find a community that shares that interest? Whether it’s online or in person, there’s a group out there waiting to welcome you.
Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about doing something fun—it’s about doing it together.
Until next time, happy connecting!
Baily Hancock is a Connection Strategist, Keynote Speaker, and Host of the “Seeking the Overlap” Podcast who teaches people how to build, nurture, and leverage relationships to navigate challenges, thrive during transitions, and achieve greater success with the support of their community. Head to OverlapCollective.com to learn more, or comment below and say hello!
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