Time needed: 1–2 hours
Materials needed:
Computer, tablet, or phone with internet access
How you feel mentally impacts how you feel physically. Emotional conditions such as stress and anxiety can lead to unhealthy eating habits, alcohol and drug abuse, and erratic sleep cycles, all of which can contribute to physical problems. Paying attention to your emotional health is as important as overseeing your physical health, and this will be true throughout your lifetime. In this activity, take a closer look at the connection between relationships and health.
Explore healthy relationships. All of our relationships affect our health—those with friends, family, romantic partners, mentors, and peers at large. Knowing the research can provide helpful ideas and tips for living our own best lives.
Find and dig into three studies that offer some insight into relationships in the context of health. For instance, some studies have found that close friendships can lengthen our life spans, that abusive relationships erode our health, and that a good marriage makes us happier. What’s your take on the findings outlined in your chosen studies? Do any of your own experiences support them?
Troop Leaders: The instructions for all badge steps are available free of charge in your Girl Scout Volunteer Toolkit.
Girl Scout Activity Zone activities have been adapted from existing Girl Scout programming.