When mentioning high quality connections, some of the protective factors concerning social circumstances could be the following (WHO, 2012):

• social support of family and friends
• good parenting/family interaction
• physical and economic security and safety
• scholastic achievement

Family and community factors can be influential in supporting mental health. Protective factors at these levels include (Holm et al., 2021):

• positive family interactions
• quality education
• decent work conditions
• safe neighborhoods
• community cohesion
• shared cultural meaning and identity

What’s more, volunteering in your community and helping others can be a great way to connect with people, build a sense of purpose, and develop your own sense of self-worth (Ballard et al., 2019 as cited in OSG, 2021).

Positive social connections can:

• offer emotional support
• reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation
• promote resilience

Such connections serve as protective factors and contribute to ones’ perceived sense of belonging. Feeling accepted and understood by others fosters self-esteem and self-worth and that in turn offers opportunities for personal growth.