Cultivate Strong Relationships
Human connection is at the core of good mental wellness. There are times we need to talk, cry, find ways to laugh and play, or ask friends and family for encouragement.
Surrounding yourself with positive influences and supportive friends can make all the difference. Notice who brings you joy and who might be harming your emotional well-being.
Focus on the quality of your friendships and relationships. Building strong, meaningful relationships provides us with the love and care we need during hard times.
Good relationships and friendships mean:
Being open-minded and honest
Celebrating life’s ups and being there during life’s downs
Compassion and empathy between parties
Accountable, stable, and secure bonds
Bringing out the best in the other person while accepting them for who they are
If you are struggling, talk to someone you trust and be open with them – we’re all vulnerable, and we all need support in different ways at different times. Being open with a loved one on how you are doing will strengthen your relationships and form deeper friendships.
You need to put your oxygen mask on first, once you’ve done that – reach out if you notice a friend or family member who may be struggling. The small act of reaching out can make someone’s day just a little brighter.
Unplug and reconnect – Social media rarely shows the full picture of someone’s life, nor does it show your friends the authentic love you have for them. Check-in with your friends rather than just liking a photo. Show them how much you care in a way you find meaningful.
Real-Life Support Helps More Than Social Media
The Secret To Living Longer May Be Your Social Life
Most importantly, be kind to yourself and others. Empathy can make all the difference during daily interactions to create a happy and comfortable environment for friends and family. You never know what the person might be going through and the impact you can make.
You need to put your oxygen mask on first, once you’ve done that – reach out if you notice a friend or family member who may be struggling. The small act of reaching out can make someone’s day just a little brighter.
Unplug and reconnect – Social media rarely shows the full picture of someone’s life, nor does it show your friends the authentic love you have for them. Check-in with your friends rather than just liking a photo. Show them how much you care in a way you find meaningful.
Most importantly, be kind to yourself and others. Empathy can make all the difference during daily interactions to create a happy and comfortable environment for friends and family. You never know what the person might be going through and the impact you can make.
(listening to the audio versions is another great option!)
The Lonely Century, How to Restore Human Connection in a World That’s Pulling Apart by Noreena Hertz
Modern Love by Aziz Asari
The Village Effect by Susan Pinker
Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What Matters Most by Douglas Stone
Together: The Healing Power of Human Connection In a Sometimes Lonely World by Vivek Murthy
The Art of Showing Up: How To Be There For Yourself And Your People by Rachel Miller
What Are You Going Through by Sigrid Nunez
Checking In: How Getting Real With My Depression Saved My Life — and Can Save Yours by Michelle Williams
Love People, Use Things: Because The Opposite Usually Never Works by Joshua Millburn
Teenager Therapy