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Social Connection

Improves your ability to manage stress15

Boosts your immune system16

Improves your heart and brain health17

Can help in times of crisis and reduce PTSD18

Humans are social beings. That doesn’t mean we all have to be the life of the party, but strong, supportive relationships are proven to boost mental and physical health. Like any new wellness habit, working to improve your social connections and relationships can feel awkward at first. And that’s ok! Try something new and see how it goes – the results might surprise you.

Things You Can Try

  • Be proactive

    • Be proactive

    • Prioritize time with friends and family who make you feel good.
    • Commit a random act of kindness – lots of ideas here.
    • Send a text, email, or handwritten note to a friend or family member you haven’t talked to in a while.
    • Volunteer for a neighborhood event or celebration.
    • Start a conversation with a stranger at the bus stop, grocery store, or coffee shop.
    • Ask your loved ones for advice when you need it – and offer advice when asked.
    • Show appreciation for the people you care about with compliments, gifts, or help with chores.
    • Attend an event at a local community center or senior center.
    • Check in with coworkers just to say hi and see how they’re doing.
    • Enjoy live music. Many parks have free outdoor concerts in the summer.

    If you’re struggling with mental or substance use disorders, visit findtreatment.gov to get help and find a support group near you.

  • Use technology to stay in touch

    • Use technology to stay in touch

    • Text or video call a friend. If you can't catch up face-to-face, using technology is a great option.
    • Find social groups through social media. Whether you’re a new parent, small business owner, sci-fi reader, or dog-lover, there’s a group out there for you.
    • If you’re a gamer, reach out to someone in your gaming community and see if they want to start a social group.
    • If you like sports, join a watch party with other fans of your team!
  • Seek out people who share your interests or hobbies

    • Seek out people who share your interests or hobbies

    • Join a club or recreational sports league, or sign up for a class.
    • Find a place to volunteer where you can meet people who share your interests.
    • Get involved in a faith or spirituality-based group that’s right for you.
    • Plan a game night or cook a meal at home with friends.
    • If you meet someone who has a similar interest, ask them to join you the next time you knit, ski, hike, crochet, read, write, paint, listen to music, etc.
    • Check out local community centers or hobby groups for free classes.
  • Start a routine

    • Start a routine

    • Schedule a regular game night.
    • Host a monthly dinner party or brunch.
    • Plan a weekly park or coffee date with friends.
    • Call out-of-town loved ones. Put it on your calendar and make it a regular thing.
    • Volunteer with a local non-profit once a season. Some employers allow you to volunteer during work hours without taking vacation time.
  • Be proactive
  • Use technology to stay in touch
  • Seek out people who share your interests or hobbies
  • Start a routine

More Resources
and Support

Social Wellness Toolkit from the National Institutes of Health Learn more about different types of social support

15 Excessive Smartphone Use is Associated with Health Problems in Adolescents

16 Managing Stress with Social Support

17 Managing Stress with Social Support

18 Social support and crisis

Be Well WA is an initiative created by the Washington State Department of Health to help everyone in Washington live healthy and make positive changes in our lives, families, and communities.

We believe well-being is for everyone, no matter your age, budget, ability, or time constraints. For interest in partnering please visit doh.wa.gov/BeWellWA.