Do Something with Someone

Keep connected to friends and family; get involved in groups, join in local community activities.

A sense of belonging is fundamental to good mental health. Regular involvement in social activities results in strong personal support, and the more social interactions individuals have, the greater the contribution to their mental health and the greater their ability to cope with trauma and the stressors of life that affect our mental health. People appear to be hardwired for empathy and relationships and have an innate need to belong. Relationships are not only central to mental well-being, reducing common health risks, but loneliness can increase anxiety, increase depressive symptoms, and reduce optimism and self-esteem. Furthermore, a sense of belonging or identification with a group helps buffer the negative well-being consequences of change.

Resources