Everyone's different – and we all want different things from a friendship or relationship. Self-awareness is important to the types of connections we choose, how we function in these social connections and what our expectations and needs are when connecting with people.  Not every new person we meet will be an automatic friend, be respectful and considerate, while at the same time being yourself.

Healthy relationships are all about respecting each other (thoughts, ideas, emotions and privacy) feeling safe and free to be yourself. Relationships can be confusing and it can be difficult to understand what is and isn’t normal behaviour.  The Home Office ‘Disrespect Nobody’ campaign provides more advice and information on their website.

 Why it is important to train our Connection skills.

• Better friendships - Positive relationships make our lives more meaningful.
• Increased happiness - People who are well connected tend to be happier, more physically fit and have less mental health problems throughout their lives. We have lots of dedicated resources  to build your connections on Student Life
• Workplace success - People with good Connection skills tend to do better in the workplace. Teamwork is one of the most highly requested skills from employers. Spending some time working on your Connection skills can help you thrive in your future career.

Top Resilience Tip - Build healthy relationships and connections with people around you.

Six ways to nourish your connections to reduce loneliness

One - Watch this video on how to tackle feeling lonely. Access student tips to help with loneliness. Access the transcript.  

Two - Check out this series of guides packed with practical tips and ideas to support individuals tackle loneliness.
         Student guide to understanding and tackling loneliness.
         Colleague guide to understanding finding connections to feel less lonely here. Session slides.
         Parents and Carers guide to understanding finding connections to feel less lonely here.

Three - Joining groups where you can meet others who share your interests can also support you. Find out more from the B&FC Student Union Enrichment Hub. May is Living Streets' National Walking Month, you can connect with the initiative on their website and download the #Try 20 checklist.

Four - Find out how to volunteer in your local community and give your time to help others.

Five - Find out more about how to get connected over on the NHS Every Mind Matters loneliness webpage. The British Red Cross have a range of activities tackling loneliness over on their website including tackling loneliness wellbeing cards and a kindness activity pack.

Six - Have a go at upskilling through Fika’s Connection skills by downloading Fika and sign up via Apple / Google Play / Web.