Humans are social creatures and we need to connect with others to support our mental wellbeing.
Sometimes when we are feeling emotional it can be difficult to think clearly. Talking about how we’re feeling can help to connect the emotional and the logical parts of our brains and helps us gain perspective. It also helps us to maintain our mental wellbeing when life is going well.
Connecting with ourselves in order to connect with others
In order to meaningfully connect with others, we need to be able to be our true self when we are around them. We might need to take some time to understand our emotions and what is important to us before we reach out to others. This can help us build stronger connections with others.
Connecting with others
To build meaningful connections with others we need to be considerate of how they might be feeling too. Giving space for people to be heard is as important as talking honestly about how we are feeling.
Even brief interactions with strangers, such as sharing a smile, a brief conversation or doing small acts of kindness for others, can influence our mental wellbeing.
Giving and receiving help builds connections
Helping others is a great way to connect and meet new people. We might volunteer our time for a cause we care about, offer to help a neighbour with a task or be there for a friend who might need someone to talk to.
Evidence shows that helping others not only makes those we help feel good, but it’s great for our mental wellbeing too.
Being asked for help can make us feel valued. So if you’re worried about someone’s wellbeing, asking them for advice or to help you with a task can be great way to boost their wellbeing and help them feel appreciated. Asking how they are, or if they need anything from you will also help them to know you’re there for them.
Opportunities to create new connections
Trying new things, going to new places or exploring our interests can open up opportunities to connect with people through shared experiences. We might join a local community group or chat with others in online spaces, such as social media groups.
Get inspired
Enjoying family time and connecting with Welsh history
Looking after my wellbeing as a carer
Blasting music and singing with my son in the kitchen
Swimming helps me to relax and be mindful
Take a deeper dive
View our wellbeing tools and resources
A collection of resources and ideas to inspire you to take that first step toward better mental wellbeing.
Learn moreLearning
Did you know that learning is a powerful way to connect with new ideas, perspectives, and people?
Learn morePhysical health
Did you know that our physical and mental wellbeing are closely connected? Looking after our physical health supports our mental wellbeing.
Learn moreOur thoughts and feelings
Did you know that our thoughts and feelings can influence how we act? They can shape our behaviours and influence our overall sense of mental wellbeing.
Learn moreHistory and heritage
Did you know that connecting with heritage, historic places and the things that make up our culture can support our mental wellbeing and life in our communities?
Learn moreCreativity
Did you know that being creative and taking part in creative activities is good for our mental wellbeing?
Learn moreHobbies and interests
Did you know that spending time doing things you enjoy can help calm your mind and make you feel focused?
Learn moreNature
Did you know that spending time connecting to nature and noticing things in the natural world around us is good for our mental wellbeing?
Learn more