Hi everyone! Let's talk about relationships and mental health. As human beings, we are wired for connection and we have a psychological need for belonging through friendship, inti...

Hi everyone! Let's talk about relationships and mental health. As human beings, we are wired for connection and we have a psychological need for belonging through friendship, intimacy or being part of a group (like this one!). Healthy relationships are part of maintaining good mental health. They remind us that we matter. That we are cared for. That we are supported. That we are not alone. We do not need many people in our lives. We need a few meaningful relationships that are safe, even if that is with one or two people. Indeed, quality is better than quantity! When you talk to someone you trust and who can listen, you feel heard, understood, and as if you are sharing your burden. This connection can help regulate our emotions and our nervous systems. When we share our worries, they often feel more manageable. When we share our joy, it grows. And this doesn’t always mean deep, long conversations. Connection can be: A quick message to check in - I often send my friends texts like "Hey, thought of you, hope you're well". A coffee with a friend. A phone call with a friend or family member. A simple moment of laughter with someone you trust. If you’ve been feeling disconnected lately, start small. Reach out to one person. Send a message. Make a short call. Plan a simple meet-up. Say hi to the person in the grocery shop. These small moments of connection are still meaningful and important.