Mental Health Moment
September 2021
Building Trust and Making Connections
As we begin a new school year, we can acknowledge and reflect on the last 18 months. We have overcome many challenges and we are all at different places. This school year we are learning a new building, adjusting to a new school culture, and forming new relationships. Building trust and making those important connections are important protective factors and coping strategies. Research shows that students who feel a personal connection to a trusted adult and peers in school show more engagement in learning and achieve at higher levels. An essential component of meaningful relationships is trust - it's safety and comfort.
According to Psychology Today, the 7 ways to Build Trust in a Relationship include:
- Say what you mean, and mean what you say
- Be vulnerable - gradually
- Remember the role of respect
- Give the benefit of the doubt
- Express your feelings functionally, especially when it's tough
- Take a risk together
- Be willing to give as well as receive
Positive Psychology further recommends these strategies on building trust:
- Be honest
- Participate openly
- Avoid self-promotion
- Admit mistakes
- Show your feelings
- Help others
- Stay authentic to your convictions
All of the above strategies are helpful for any relationship. But what about specifically in school?
Communication is key. Consider how you communicate both in writing such as through an email and through in person conversations. If speaking with others is a challenge, start small. Try with an email or try asking questions and making conversations that involve easy topics such as the weather or sports teams.
Other ideas include spending 1-on-1 time with a teacher or school staff member such as before or after school, coming into class on time and greeting adults and peers alike. Join a club, sport or after school extracurricular activity that can help you form a connection with peers that have similar interests.