Relationships and mental health

Relationships aren’t fixed, and neither are we. Healthy relationships grow over time. They’re not something you’re expected to “just know” how to do. Strong relationships are built through many small moments of care, honest conversations and a willingness to understand each other.

There are also many options for support if your relationship is struggling. Things like mindfulness practice and couples support can help you find new ways to communicate and understand each other.

You don’t have to tackle everything at once. Even one small change can help your relationships grow in a healthier direction.

There are some skills that anyone can learn, that can make your relationships stronger, safer and more supportive.

Building new relationships and strengthening existing ones

It might sound obvious, but you strengthen your relationships and build new ones by regularly taking small steps to connect.

Giving yourself chances to meet people, stay in touch, share experiences, have meaningful conversations and support one another can make a real difference to how you feel.

If you’ve got some ideas about making and strengthening connections, it can still be nerve-racking putting them into practice.

If you’re feeling self-conscious, one of the biggest things to remember is to focus less on yourself and more on the other person. Shifting your attention to them can ease the pressure and help the conversation flow more naturally.

Remember – do what feels manageable for you

Building your social supports should ease your stress, not add to it. You don’t need to overhaul your whole social life. Small, steady steps count. Do what feels manageable for you and try to spend more time with people who lift your energy.