It can be hard to connect with people sometimes especially when we’re busy, stressed or feeling low. But there’s lots of evidence that keeping in close touch can help us feel happier and healthier whether it’s with friends, family, neighbours, or people at work. It can even protect us against becoming unwell.
There’s lots of ways to lead a life full of healthy human interaction. How you choose to do it is up to you! Quality social connection comes in lots of forms and usually the more connected you are, the better the benefits.
So here’s some simple tips for building better social connections into your life. Tip one: Make plans Make time to talk, set plans with people, and stick to them. Tip 2: Connect every day Try to connect with family or someone you trust each day this could include a fixed ‘family time’ where everyone puts away their phones and shares an activity, has a meal, or just talks.
This doesn’t just have to be close friends and family, either. Even having casual friends and acquaintances can have benefits. Try joining a new club, or going out to events to meet new people, simply talking on the phone, exchanging emails or the occasional text message to keep in touch.
Tip 3: Connect with your interests Have a look for events or courses in your local area that interest you. Fill up your diary, go along, and say hello to the people there. It’s a great way of opening up opportunities to meet like-minded people.
Websites like MeetUp. com have a wide range of local social groups around the UK. Tip 4: Reach out Sharing your thoughts can really help, whether it's with someone you know, a volunteer or professional.
There’s always someone who can listen. Have a think if there’s someone you used to be close to, who you could reconnect with. When you’re talking with someone, reach out and be curious by asking them questions about themselves.
This can really help you make a good connection. There are also lots of fantastic helplines with trained staff and volunteers who care about what you have to say, and can offer you help if you need it. You can find details on the Every Mind Matters website.
Tip 5: Offer a helping hand If you like you can even volunteer your time to help others. Not only is it a kind thing to do, giving to others is also a proven way to improve our own mental health. And it’s a great way to connect with other volunteers as well as the people you are supporting.
Find something you’re interested in, or a local charity, and get in touch to see if they need any help. Or you can even just offer a favour to a neighbour or help out a colleague at work. Connection is important.
We can all do simple things to be a little more social and help those in our lives do the same.
