Why Connection Matters: The Link Between Strong Relationships and Mental Health
Humans are social beings, meant to form connections and go through life with the company of others. From the moment we’re born, we begin forming connections with our caregivers. We rely on them to survive.
As we grow, these early connections become that much more important as they shape how we interact with others and form new connections. They are the foundational basis for our mental health and emotional well-being.
The Science Behind Connection
Connection is a powerful force in our lives. When we feel connected to another person on a genuine level, it triggers the release of oxytocin and endorphins in the brain. These are the natural feel-good hormones that promote happiness and security. They also help reduce stress.
Having strong connections scientifically leads to more happiness, which results in:
Lower rates of anxiety
Lower likelihood of developing depression
Greater empathy
Higher self-esteem
Similarly, if you have minimal or poor-quality relationships, you’re at a higher risk of mental health challenges and cognitive decline.
What Is a Strong Connection?
All relationships aren’t considered equal. You have varying levels of connection, each having its own characteristics. Take surface-level interactions or your general acquaintances, for example. You likely won’t find a deep connection, nor will your basic needs be met by this.
Characteristics of a strong connection include:
Emotional Safety: You feel at ease opening up and being vulnerable. You don’t fear being judged or rejected.
Mutual Understanding: There is a genuine effort made on both sides of the relationship to understand differing perspectives, feelings, emotions, and experiences.
Consistent Support: Both of you can provide reliable support and encouragement in times of need, whether good or bad.
Shared Growth: This is an extremely important piece of the puzzle. You each celebrate each other’s progress and are cheerleaders for personal growth and development. No exceptions.
The Effect of Strong Connections
When you establish strong connections in your life, the benefits you’ll receive will go well beyond short-term happiness. Think of quality relationships as a buffer for all of life’s stressors. They provide you with support and perspective during times of need, but also help amplify joy during celebratory times.
Strong relationships also serve as a guide for healthy behaviors. You’re more likely to give respect and empathy when you regularly experience it. You will seek out caring behaviors when it’s a normal part of your interactions. What serves you well in one relationship can be the driving force for healthy behaviors in another one.
These types of connections also help build resilience. Knowing that someone has your back can help you bounce back that much easier when you face adversity. This is important if you’re in a job or personal role where emotional burnout is a greater risk.
How to Build Connection in Modern Times
Nowadays, with the world becoming digitalized, it can feel increasingly difficult to establish and maintain meaningful connections. On top of that, work demands, family responsibilities, and social commitments aren’t letting up any.
Thankfully, strong connections don’t necessarily require a massive time commitment. If you give a plant a little bit of sun and water each week, it will continue to grow. Much like that, these relationships are solid. They only need small, consistent efforts to exist.
Connection is more focused on quality over quantity. Having a few deep and meaningful connections can serve you better than having a large network of superficial ones.
Your Mental Health Deserves Strong Connections
There will be times that, despite the best intentions, relationships face challenges. Conflict is a natural part of life. This is where professional support can make a difference.
If you’re finding it difficult to maintain your connections, or build new ones for that matter, relationship counseling can help you develop the skills and confidence you need. Connection is an investment in your long-term well-being. I’m here to help.
