The Role of Connection in Mental Health

The month of May is Mental Health Awareness Month. So I’d like to discuss the importance of staying connected with one another to try our best to alleviate poor mental health.

Many people view mental health as something that is faced individually, but research shows that connection plays a critical role in our overall well-being. Research published in The American Journal of Psychiatry (Choi, K. W., et al., 2020) found that people who have friends and close confidants are more satisfied with their lives and less likely to suffer from depression.

On the other hand, when people are low in social connection—because of isolation, loneliness, or poor-quality relationships—they face an increased risk of premature death. This was noted by Julianne Holt-Lunstad, PhD, a professor of psychology and neuroscience at Brigham Young University, who studies how relationships affect the body and brain.

In the words of Beyoncé: “My friends, real friends… better than your friends.”

And while that line may feel lighthearted, the truth behind it runs deep. Real connection matters.

I can say that my friends have often shown up for me when I needed them most, and having them by my side has improved my mental health. On days when I didn’t feel like myself, I could call them, and they would help me remember who I am and why I am needed in this world.

But connection is not one-sided.

While it’s okay to lean on your friends, it’s not true connection if you aren’t checking in on them as well. Especially the strong friend. The one everyone assumes is okay. The one who listens, shows up, and carries more than they let on. The strong friend is often forgotten because people believe they don’t need support. And even if they don’t ask for help, they still need you… their friend. To listen. To sit with them. To simply be around.

So be around.

Because Mental Health Awareness Month isn’t just about awareness. It’s about action. It’s about community. It’s about making sure no one feels alone in what they’re going through.

And sometimes, the simplest way to support someone’s mental health… is to stay connected.