Connect with friends or whnauConnecting with people can help you feel better faster and stay well for longer. Try some of these ideas if you haven't been keeping in touch with friends or whnau for a while.

Find one of these occasions to get in touch:

We know that when people are feeling low and anxious, they often withdraw from their whnau and friends. Its a natural response but actually, strong connections can help you get well faster and help you stay well for longer.

Your whnau and your community can be your strength, providing a strong sense of belonging and support (tautoko). Getting involved, spending time with them, and even doing things for them can give you a feeling of purpose and wellbeing.

Its good to get out in public, even if its just down to the shops or to a sports match. If youre getting together with people, keep the visits short if that makes it easier. You dont have to talk about the way youre feeling.

It might help to plan your outings. Decide what youre going to do and write down when youll do it. This makes it easier to ignore those negative feelings that stop you going at the last minute.

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Self-help | Depression and Anxiety