The power of connection: Why social wellness matters for our mental health at work

Mental health is shaped by many factors, one of the most powerful being our relationships with others. Social wellness - the quality of our interactions and connections - plays a vital role in how we feel, think, and function. Both in and out of work. 

July is Social Wellness Month. A time to reflect on how your relationships impact your wellbeing and take small steps toward stronger support networks. 

What is social wellness? 

Social wellness refers to the ability to form and maintain healthy, supportive relationships. It’s about feeling connected, valued, and understood by others, whether that’s colleagues, friends, family, or community. In the workplace, social wellness can influence how comfortable we feel asking for help, how well we collaborate, and how resilient we are during challenging times. 

How social wellness affects us 

When our social wellness is strong, we’re more likely to feel confident, motivated, and emotionally balanced. When we feel isolated or disconnected, it can increase stress, anxiety, and even lead to burnout. For people living with mental health difficulties, social support can be a lifeline - helping them to navigate tough days and stay engaged at work. 

The benefits of nurturing social wellness 

Fostering strong social connections in the workplace can lead to a wide range of personal and professional benefits.

• Improved mood and reduced stress
• Greater sense of belonging and purpose
• Better communication and teamwork 
• Increased resilience and coping skills 
• Enhanced productivity and job satisfaction 

These benefits don’t just support individuals, they also help employers create healthier, more inclusive workplaces. 

Realistic steps to improve social wellness at work 

You don’t need to be the most outgoing person in the room to improve your social wellness. Here are some accessible ways to start: 

• Check in with a colleague. A simple “How are you doing today?” is an easy way to take the first step in making conversation. It doesn’t have to be an in-depth, lengthy chat, but reaching out like this can go a long way.
• Join a workplace group or activity. Whether it’s a lunch club or a virtual coffee break - shared interests build connection.
• Set boundaries and respect yourself and others. Healthy relationships thrive when we respect our own needs and limits. This could be learning when to say no to things that don’t serve you, listening when someone says they’re unavailable, not pushing for personal details they’re not ready or willing to share, or recognising when a colleague needs space. 
• Ask for support. If something’s on your mind, talking to someone you trust can ease the burden. Finding someone you feel at ease talking to and asking to speak to them privately can help make the situation more comfortable.
• Utilise services like Able Futures. Our confidential, no-cost support can help you build confidence in social situations and manage the impact of mental health challenges at work. 

You’re not alone 

Social wellness is not about having a huge network. It’s about having meaningful connections that support your wellbeing. We’re here to help you strengthen those connections and feel more in control of your mental health at work. If something is affecting your time at work, you don’t have to face it alone. Able Futures offers nine months of practical, confidential support at no cost to you. Let’s work together to build a healthier, more connected workplace.