Social Connection (PDF)

When people hear “social connection,” they might think it just means being outgoing or having lots of friends. But the real challenge is often disconnection — feeling distant or unsure how to reach out. The good news: connection is a skill that can be learned. The Social Connection handout offers simple ways to build or strengthen relationships — through one-on-one conversations, group activities, acts of kindness, or basic social skills. Clients are guided through specific, actionable tips to help them take the first step. As kids and teens engage with the handout, they become more confident in developing this coping skill by building relationships, opening up, and recognizing that they’re not truly alone. After reading, they can start identifying people they feel safe reaching out to. Adults can encourage this by creating low-pressure social moments, suggesting reconnection with others, or helping them build new bonds in small, meaningful ways. *This item is an instant digital download. A link to download your files will be emailed to you once payment is confirmed. Want more resources like this? Check out our full catalog of coping skills worksheets and handouts. References: Birrell, L., Werner-Seidler, A., Davidson, L., Andrews, J. L., & Slade, T. (2025). Social connection as a key target for youth mental health. Mental Health & Prevention, 37, 200395. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mhp.2025.200395 Filia, K., Eastwood, O., Herniman, S., & Badcock, P. (2021). Facilitating improvements in young people’s social relationships to prevent or treat depression: A review of empirically supported interventions. Translational Psychiatry, 11(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41398-021-01406-7