Latest / Wellbeing Solutions - Ask A Counsellor / What steps help me build genuine online connections?

Transcript

What steps help me build genuine online connections? · Wellbeing Solutions - Ask A Counsellor

• 0:00
  SPEAKER_00: Feeling like your online connections aren't quite landing or that you're talking to a lot of people without actually feeling close to any of them is a really common experience.
• 0:10
  SPEAKER_00: It happens because a lot of online interaction is built for speed and reach, not depth, so it's easy to end up with plenty of contacts and very little genuine connection.
• 0:21
  SPEAKER_00: Now, genuine connection online tends to come from being a bit more real rather than not.
• 0:27
  SPEAKER_00: It can help to notice when you're presenting a tidied up version of yourself, always upbeat, always certain, and to ask what it would look like to share something a little more honest instead.
• 0:37
  SPEAKER_00: Even something small, like admitting you don't know the answer to something, or that a day has been hard.
• 0:44
  SPEAKER_00: People generally respond to that kind of honesty far more than they respond to a perceived perfect version of yourself.
• 0:51
  SPEAKER_00: It also helps to be direct about what you actually want from an interaction.
• 0:56
  SPEAKER_00: If you're looking for support, advice, or just a proper conversation, then just say so rather than hoping someone picks up on it.
• 1:04
  SPEAKER_00: And being upfront like that takes some of the guesswork out of connecting and gives the other person a real chance to meet you there.
• 1:12
  SPEAKER_00: Now, practical ways to support yourself with this is to be intentional about where you spend your time online.
• 1:18
  SPEAKER_00: So smaller, more focused spaces such as a group chat, a forum around a shared interest, or a community tied to something you actually care about tend to lead to deeper connection than scrolling a large general feed.
• 1:32
  SPEAKER_00: And when you do comment or message someone, take a moment to picture them as an actual person on the other end rather than just a username, as it can help shift how you write and how open you're willing to be.
• 1:44
  SPEAKER_00: And it can also help to follow up.
• 1:47
  SPEAKER_00: So a single comment or message rarely builds a relationship on its own.
• 1:50
  SPEAKER_00: So if a conversation with someone felt good, then message them again, ask a genuine question, or suggest moving the chat somewhere more personal.
• 1:59
  SPEAKER_00: Now, if the feeling of loneliness is still present despite regular online contact, or if you notice you're using online interaction to avoid connecting with people in person, then it might be worth talking to a GP or a therapist about what might be underneath that.
• 2:14
  SPEAKER_00: You can find more support and tools around being login and connection on the app.
• 2:18
  SPEAKER_00: And if you are thinking about harming yourself or feeling safe, then please seek urgent help by contacting your local emergency number or a crisis helpline.