Why Social Activities Are Essential for Mental Health: Insights from a Case Manager

In a recent Tumblr post reblogged by Seanan McGuire and originally shared by Genderq****d***s, the importance of social activities for mental health was profoundly highlighted. The post recounts an experience with a case manager who included the affordability of social activities in a comprehensive needs assessment. This checklist was designed to refresh the treatment plan and focused on various areas of financial struggles, specifically inquiring about the ability to afford social activities such as hanging out with friends and going to the movies.

The pivotal question asked was, "Do you have enough money every month to be able to afford social activities?" Notably, this was not categorized as a luxury but was listed alongside basic necessities like food, housing, medical needs, transportation, bills, and clothing. This revelation brought the poster to tears, realizing that social interactions and leisure activities are considered fundamental to everyone’s mental well-being.

The case manager emphasized that no one should have to "earn" the right to socialize or engage in activities that bring personal fulfillment. The notion that all financial resources must be allocated solely to survival and practicality is not only misleading but detrimental to mental health. For anyone who has been told that social or leisure activities are unnecessary or that their money should exclusively cover survival needs, the message is clear: this is a harmful lie. Social and leisure activities are crucial for maintaining mental health and well-being.

The post resonated deeply with many users, generating over 7,610 notes. Comments on the post ranged from personal anecdotes to broader societal critiques. One user mentioned how they are preparing to ask for a significant raise because, while they can afford to live, they cannot afford the aspects that make life enjoyable, such as travel and sports. Another user highlighted the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in making people realize the importance of social connections and activities.

Comments also addressed the broader implications of capitalism on mental health, with several users criticizing the societal expectation that financial resources should be devoted entirely to survival. One particularly poignant comment likened someone who is merely surviving without social interactions to a "vegetable" on life support, emphasizing that engaging with people and experiences is integral to being human.

The conversation extended to discussions on affordable living, with users sharing their struggles to manage finances while ensuring they can still engage in social activities. The consensus was clear: mental health and well-being are significantly enhanced by the ability to participate in social and leisure activities.

In summary, the Tumblr post shared by Genderq****d***s and reblogged by Seanan McGuire underscores an essential truth—social activities are not luxuries but necessary purchases for maintaining mental health. This insight challenges the pervasive narrative that prioritizes survival over fulfillment and calls for a more holistic approach to financial and mental well-being.