Connect: Build Positive Relationships

Positive social relationships promote well-being and mental wellness.

Connect with the people around you – with family, friends, colleagues and neighbours – at home, work, school or in your community. Think of these relationships as the cornerstones of your life and invest time in developing them. These connections will support and enrich you every day.

Actions you can take:

Volunteer in your community.

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Take part in activities or committees at work.
Check out your local cultural centres and get involved with cultural activities, dance, events and music.
Join a team, club, society or organization that has meaning for you. Try crafts, sports, music, book clubs, travel, games or outdoor activities – just to name a few.
Host a potluck lunch at work or a dinner in your neighborhood.
Practice smiling at strangers – you may be surprised at the smiles you get back!
Start a joke collection and share with friends.
Read your local newspaper or bulletin board in a community centre or store to find out what is happening in your neighbourhood.
Disconnect from screens – play cards or try a board game instead.
Learn more about other views of connectedness and spirituality in your community.

Adapted from the New Economics Foundation Five Ways to Wellbeing Project

More Five Ways to Well-being Articles

Be Active: Move to Feel Good
Notice: Savour the Moment
Keep Learning: Open Your Mind
Give: Find Fulfillment in Helping Others

Resources & Links:

Here to Help: Mental health and substance use information
Canadian Mental Health Association: British Columbia Division
Vancouver Community Network: Multicultural organizations in BC
Aboriginal Friendship Centres: BC Friendship Centres
Aboriginal Tourism BC: Event Calendar
Volunteer BC: Local Centres
Healthy Families BC: Staying Connected
British Columbia public libraries

Last Updated: October 4, 2016

Important Phone Numbers

If you or someone you know needs help, call one of the numbers below:

9-1-1 if you are in an emergency.
8-1-1 for non-emergency information on how to access alternatives to toxic drug supply and substance use services
1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) if you are considering suicide or are concerned about someone who may be.
310Mental Health Support at 310-6789 (no area code needed) for emotional support, information and resources specific to mental health.
Kid’s Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868 to speak to a professional counsellor, 24 hours a day.
Alcohol & Drug Information and Referral Service at 1-800-663-1441 (toll-free in B.C.) or 604-660-9382 (in the Lower Mainland) to find resources and support.

Find Mental Health and Substance Use Support

Are you looking for mental health and/or substance use support in British Columbia?

Visit Mental Health and Substance Use Supports in B.C., an online resource of over 6,000+ mental health and substance use services. Or, call 8-1-1 any time of the day or night for help navigating the mental health system. For the deaf and hard of hearing call 7-1-1 (TTY) or for VRS, visit Video Relay Services to sign up and give them the number 604-215-5101 to call us.