Defining social emotional well-being
Social well-being is our ability to effectively communicate with others, develop and maintain positive relationships, and create a community of support around ourselves. Part of our social well-being is having a sense of belonging which can be achieved through meaningful positive relationships, student organizations and clubs, community and special interest groups and many others. Our ability to identify emotions in others, recognize that those feelings are different than our own, respond empathically and adapt to a variety of situations is another important component of our social well-being.
Emotional well-being is our ability to effectively cope with life’s stressors and to identify and manage emotions in a way that supports and improves our mental well-being. This includes the ability to identify what you are feeling, how to manage that emotion, and how to navigate those emotions in a way that leads to stable and supportive relationships with others.
Importance of social emotional well-being
Source: Jones, D., Crowley, D.M., and Greenberg, M.T. (2017, July). Improving Social Emotional Skills in Childhood Enhances Long-Term Well-Being and Economic Outcomes. Edna Bennet Pierce Prevention Research Center, Pennsylvania State University.
Social and emotional well-being increases resilience.
Increases high school and college graduation rates.
Strong social and emotional skills lead to improved education, employment opportunities and physical and mental health.
Decreases relationship difficulties and the likelihood of misusing substances.
Tips for enhancing social emotional well-being
- Talk to someone you trust about how you’re feeling.
- Understand and model asking for help.
- Challenge yourself to meet new people.
- Explore the broader community; try a new restaurant, attend a community event, learn about another culture.
- Practice having a growth mindset by believing you are capable of building your talents and abilities.
- Set aside time for what you enjoy.
- Take time to reflect on how you cope with stress to identify what’s working and what isn’t.