Connect With Others

A recent study showed that people who have social support from their loved ones, friends, and community members tend to live longer, healthier, and happier lives.

Ways to connect

Look into groups near you. You may be able to find an interesting club through a church, community center, or online using Meetup or Facebook groups. Before you know it, you’ll be up to date on all the latest meetups around town, making new friends with shared interests, and getting support from unexpected places.

Ask for help with tasks

If you have been putting off cleaning out your fridge or redecorating your living room because you could use an extra hand, reach out! See if a friend is free to help you. Not only will you have one less task on your to-do list, but more than likely it’ll turn into a fun day of catching up.

Join a support group or online community

Growing your community of support should include making new connections with other people who have PAH. There are numerous support groups available to you, many of which hold in-person and virtual meetings and events throughout the year.

• The PAH Initiative has active, online communities on Facebook and Instagram, where you can learn more about PAH and interact with others living with PAH
• The Pulmonary Hypertension Association offers an easy-to-use support group map and meeting calendar that you can use to find support groups across the United States
• The Scleroderma Foundation also has an online tool to help you find a PAH support group near you
• PHAware keeps a running list of contests and events that you can participate in to connect with others like you

Become a volunteer (or a PAH Initiative Ambassador)

Do you have a passion for serving underprivileged youth? Or love keeping the earth clean and green? Whatever cause you care about, see if your community has an outreach program in place where you could extend your services. Devoting a couple of hours each month might turn into some new connections and give you a new favorite hobby.

If you’re interested in helping others with PAH by telling your story, consider becoming a PAH Initiative Ambassador. To learn more, call 1-866-505-7337.

Meet up with an old friend

Everyone has that old friend they’ve been meaning to catch up with, but never seem to have the time. Well, now is your time! Figure out a day that works for you both and stick with it. Go for a short walk together or meet up for a quick bite to eat. A few minutes chatting might be just what you need to put a pep in your step.

Attend community events

Check out your local coffee shop, library, or visitor center to find out what events are going on in your community this month. You can also check the online event hub, Eventbrite, which is home to thousands of events—many of which are free to attend.

Creative ways to stay connected from afar

Let’s face it, sometimes going out with friends or family can feel overwhelming, especially if it means suffering from shortness of breath or lugging around oxygen. Thankfully, on the days you need to stay home, there are other options.

Today, there are more ways than ever to make connections with people—even from across the globe (and from the comfort of your own home). It may not sound as exciting as a “girls’ night out” but when going out isn’t an option, try to make the most of the tools you have right at your fingertips.

FaceTime, Zoom, Marco Polo, and Facebook video calls

Just to name a few! There are dozens of different apps and websites that allow you to connect with people in real time, face-to-face. Set up dates with your friends, family, and coworkers so you can catch up regularly.

Phone calls and group chats

An oldie, but a goodie! Remember to make time for a good old-fashion phone call with your loved ones. Whether it’s a quick 10-minute check-in or an hour talk-a-thon, talking with others about your day, your feelings, and your struggles can help lighten your load and keep you feeling connected with those you care about.

Watch a show or movie together

Many streaming services—like Netflix, Disney, HBO, and Hulu—have options that allow multiple users to watch the same show or movie while sharing a group chat. It’s a great way to enjoy watching TV and movies with your friends and family when you can’t be physically together. Check out each service’s app or website for specific instructions on how to set up your next virtual movie night.

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