Strengthening Your Connections
Prevents Harmful Behaviors
DOD’s suicide prevention initiative “Connect to Protect” not only perfectly rolls off the tongue but is also backed by science. Studies (including those by the National Institute of Health and Stanford University) prove that strengthening social connections helps improve emotional wellbeing and physical health and decrease feelings of depression and anxiety. As a result, harmful behaviors such as self-harm, substance and alcohol abuse, and violence can be prevented.
In the 2001 film Legally Blonde, there is a key line delivered by the protagonist: "Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy people just don’t shoot their husbands." This concisely (and memorably) sums up the domino effect of how strengthening connections and focusing on your health can foster a climate of trust and prevent harmful behaviors. Much like exercising gives you endorphins, connecting with others releases the happy juices in your brain like dopamine, oxytocin, and serotonin. Researchers have proven that elevated levels of these chemicals can lead to better health and overall improved quality of life.
Here are 10 ways you can strengthen your connections:
1. Make time for others – reach out and plan time to spend with your buddies, whether it be going out to dinner or just hanging out in your barracks. Bonus: put your phone away and relish in the quality time you’re sharing together.2. Keep unsolicited advice to yourself – someone may do something differently than you would; but unless you’re asked for advice, refrain from chiming in.
3. Express interest in others – ask questions, maintain eye contact, and remember the details (names, events, etc.).
4. Steer clear of gossip – let the secrets stop with you and redirect the conversation to another topic.
5. Look on the bright side – by practicing mindfulness and self-compassion, you can radiate positivity. Remember, your vibe attracts your tribe.
6. Avoid complaining – work may be taxing, and your partner may irk the daylights out of you, but step back, look at the bigger picture, and focus on the positives.
7. Acknowledge other people’s accomplishments – give praise and compliments when they are due. Did a buddy recently get a promotion? Congratulate and celebrate with them.
8. Say what you mean and mean what you say – stick to your word and follow things through.
9. Empathize with others – imagine yourself in someone else’s boots, show concern for others, and acknowledge their feelings.
10. Establish boundaries – Are certain topics triggering for you? Be consistent and clear with what’s ok and what’s not.
Incorporating these ideas into your relationships and everyday social interactions not only builds trust and better teams but can also prevent destructive behaviors. You will be able to notice red flags more prominently and your battle buddies will likely confide in you if they’re going through a tough time.
With these tips to strengthen your personal connections, you can be the catalyst that incites positive behavior. For more information, please find your installation resource guide or learn how to build your resilience here.
*Written by Ash Chagnon