Good communication skills are an important part of understanding others and being understood. Socially well individuals are respectful and authentic with others, generously sharing their thoughts, stories and feelings, and noticing when it’s better to listen than to speak.

Seeking opportunities to connect with others is a means to maintain and create relationships and an indication of ease and comfort in social situations. Whether through social networking sites, at social gatherings among friends and family, or over the phone, socially well individuals are active participants in their relationships.

Developing healthy attachments as opposed to unhealthy attachments is an important differentiation to make when discussing social wellness. Healthy attachments are characterized by mutual respect, equal give and take, and the overall positive influence the attachment has on the lives of those involved in the relationship.

Coping with unhealthy relationships can be just as important as maintaining good relationships. Socially well individuals can recognize when a relationship is harmful to them and is able to part from negative relationships (or, if a total separation isn’t possible, insert a fair amount of distance between themselves and the other person).

Respecting others assists in forming authentic relationships based on openness, trust and understanding. Socially well individuals treat all connections courteously and openly, and do not pass judgment on others based on race, sex, religion or ethnicity, choosing to explore diversity in their social interactions instead.

Performing social roles is similar to fulfilling a position description for your job. Your social roles include your position in your military assignment, your relationship to your family members and your obligations to the community. Being a good parent, responding well to superior officers and abiding by the law are all examples of social wellness.

In the same way you might set aside money for everyday expenses, you should set aside time and emotion for your family and friends. Being physically and emotionally available to others doesn’t just make you a good friend; it ensures that when you’re in need, your friends and family will be there to return the favor.

Technology has made it convenient to connect with family and friends anytime, anywhere. Sharing your life with friends on Facebook and X, formerly known as Twitter, using Skype and choosing mobile packages that benefit your family and friends can help keep you in the loop even if you’re on a deployment. (Just make sure you’re practicing operational security while you’re surfing the information highway.)

Start by saying “hello” to someone you’ve seen before but never greeted. Shake hands, introduce yourself, help someone with a task or volunteer your time or talents. These are all small ways to extend yourself into your community and expand your social circle.

Do you often find yourself in an unbalanced or unhealthy relationship? Are your relationships fulfilling? Does opening up to others about yourself make you anxious or uncomfortable? Maintaining awareness of your patterns, wants and needs will help you maintain the right relationships, find support and enjoy a healthy social life.

Communication is the primary way to forge a connection with others – doing it in ways that strengthen mutual respect and affection can only reward you. Learn to listen, share and act honestly, knowing that good friends and family will appreciate and respect you for who you are.