A sense of belonging is an essential human need. In today’s world, it is easy to feel alone and isolated from others. After the pandemic, many of our day-to-day activities can be done from the comfort of our homes, from grocery shopping to work to attending extracurricular activities. However, when we wholeheartedly experience a sense of belonging, not just being around others, but actually feeling valued and accepted within our families and communities, it can improve our well-being and mental health. As we navigate different chapters of our lives, social connections and relationships serve as anchors that guide us through waves of uncertainty and times of change. The obstacles we encounter during these times test our resilience. Luckily, these connections with others provide us with the guidance, support, and comfort we need to help us grow, learn, and heal, so we can find the courage to move forward.
What is a Connection?
Connection can take different forms for each of us. For kids, it flourishes through attuned parents; for school-aged youth, connection looks like inclusion, acceptance, and respect among their peer groups. In adulthood, connections can take many forms as well. Fundamentally, it’s the feeling that our true selves are welcome and our needs are met; this can be experienced in any social
setting, whether at home, the workplace, or elsewhere. When our authentic self needs to hide, the steps to forming these bonds become more challenging, leading to loneliness or isolation. Forming connections with others takes time; it’s like watching a seed grow in stages, from meeting to getting to know someone, to them becoming your friend, and then increasing that closeness.So be patient in building those bonds. Remember, every step you take towards connection is a step towards a healthier, happier you.
Social Connections
Social connections are not just important; they are crucial to our well-being. They enhance our happiness, sense of safety, resilience, and prosperity, ultimately impacting our overall well-being and contributing to a longer, more fulfilling life [1]. During my therapy sessions with clients, I am always curious about their support networks, and at times, we explore ways to foster stronger relationships. Positive support networks are strong protective factors to prevent depression, loneliness, isolation and other mental health challenges [2]. This knowledge should give you hope and optimism about the potential for your own well-being.
![Some key characteristics of feeling social connectedness [3].](https://thenextchapterpsychotherapy.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Colorful-Pastel-Childish-Modern-Scheme-Concept-Mind-Map-Graph.png "Colorful Pastel Childish Modern Scheme Concept Mind Map Graph")
“True belonging doesn’t require that we change who we are; it requires that we be who we are.” – Brené Brown
The Importance of Belonging
When we feel connected, we experience a sense of belonging. Belonging to me is a basic human need. It’s like when you walk into a room and instantly feel at ease and at home. Here, you can be yourself freely, express yourself openly, and be understood, accepted, and appreciated in all the ways you show up. It doesn’t require us to change who we are so that we “fit in,” but opens the door for our authentic self to show up and be.
A 2020 study among college students found a positive correlation between a sense of belonging, overall well-being, increased
happiness and a decrease in mental health challenges such as loneliness, socialanxiety, suicidal thoughts, hopelessness, anxiety and depression [4]. To experience a sense of belonging, one needs to form a bond —a deep connection — with those around them. When one feels connected to a community, a sense of “having their place” not only enhances their well-being but also encourages engagement in those activities that foster meaningful life, strengthening the thread of connectivity [5]. When we find our home within ourselves and our community, the ripple effect is highly beneficial.
Ways to Grow Connection
1. Meet with people in small groups or one-on-one to create more time for communication and connection.
2. Schedule dates in your calendar to meet up with friends or colleagues regularly.
3. Engage in activities that you enjoy, which allow you to meet individuals with common interests.
4. Foster psychological safety and trust by allowing your true self to be present.
Closing Thoughts
At The Next Chapter Psychotherapy, we genuinely believe that the most paramount aspect of your counselling journey is the connection you build with your therapist. We are here to provide a safe, trusted space where you can be yourself and take the time you need to heal and grow. It’s all about feeling safe, trusted, and like you really belong. We invite you to attend your sessions as you are—no masks, no judgment—just a space where you can be yourself and take the time you need to heal and grow. You are not alone in this journey.
Interested in exploring ways to foster more connection in your life? Reach out to book a session.
References
1. Lunstad, J. H. (2024). Social Connection as a Critical Factor for Mental and Physical Health: evidence, trends, challenges, and future implications. World Psychiatry, 23(3), 312–332.
2. Birrell, L., Werner-Seidler, A., Davidson, L., Andrews, J. L., & Slade, T. (2025). Social Connection as a Key Target for Youth Mental Health. Mental Health & Prevention, 37, 1–7.
3. Smith, K. P., & Christakis, N. A. (2008). Social Networks and Health. Annual Review of Sociology, 34, 405–429. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev.soc.34.040507.134601
4. Moeller RW, Seehuus, M., & Peisch, V. (2020). Emotional Intelligence, Belongingness, and Mental Health in College Students. Front Psychol., 11(93). https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.00093
5. Fisher, L. B., Overholser, J. C., Ridley, J., Braden, A., & C., R. (2015). From the Outside Looking in: Sense of Belonging, Depression, and Suicide Risk. Psychiatry., 78(1), 29–41.