Beach Cities Health District (BCHD) has some helpful tips to increase your social connections and raise awareness about mental health! 

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH FLYER

Loneliness, a critical public health concern, affects our physical and mental health. It’s associated with heart disease, dementia, stroke, depression, anxiety and premature death. Loneliness has become so common — affecting at least half of all adults in the United States — that the U.S. Surgeon General considers it an urgent public health concern, worthy of a government advisory issued in May 2023. Surprisingly, you’re not alone — about 60% of U.S. adults feel lonely regularly. The 2023 Gallup Well-Being Index reported nearly 1 in 5 Beach Cities residents having little or no connection to other people.  

Let’s address this national and local concern together. Developing social skills can reduce loneliness, benefiting both personal and professional relationships. Regardless of our starting point, we have the capacity to enhance our social skills over time.  

Take action to combat loneliness and foster meaningful social connections to better your mental health: 

1. Initiate Conversations: Push through any hesitation and be open to starting conversations with strangers. A simple smile or friendly greeting can go a long way. Kindness and empathy spark the release of feel-good oxytocin in the brain of everyone involved, including observers. You can positively influence your community by being aware of how you interact with everyone. Assume that people like you — they probably do!  
   • What Brings You Joy 
   • People Bingo
2. Sense of Belonging: Cultivate a sense of belonging to increase resilience, better cope with difficult times and have supportive relationships. Volunteering, pursuing hobbies or contributing to a cause can create a feeling of belonging. Be part of the community and participate in meaningful activities. Seek out clubs, classes or local gatherings related to your interests. Participating in shared activities can lead to new friendships, reduce stress, diminish feelings of loneliness and increase your well-being. 
   • Glimmer Jar Activity Guide
   • My Positivity Power Ups
   • Join the Moai Movement
   • Social Connections Resources
3. Deepen Relationships: Actively listen when talking to friends or family. Show genuine interest in their lives and share your own experiences. Vulnerability can strengthen bonds. Allowing others to show they care for us is as important as providing care for someone in need. Listen with empathy and curiosity while you open up about your needs too. Let's create a culture of connection and understanding.  
   • Gratitude Card
   • Conversation Starters Full List
   • Feelings Wheel

Remember, within our community, there are fellow seekers of connection. Keep reaching out and remember that meaningful bonds evolve gradually. Fulfilling relationships and social connection are key to happiness, health and longevity. 

• Overcoming Loneliness for Better Well-Being
• Could your thoughts be making you more lonely?
• How to Boost Your Social Skills