This holiday season you might find yourself at an unfamiliar get-together with strangers. GULP How do you blend in and make friends?
#BetterTogether is brought to you by the Tuscarawas County Board of Developmental Disabilities
Strong relationships are an important part of a healthy lifestyle. You never know when or how you’ll meet a new friend. Keep an open mind at your next holiday party and look for someone who:
- Has similar interests
- Seems to accept you for who you are
- Listens attentively without judging or dismissing you
- Makes you feel comfortable sharing things about yourself and, in turn, feels comfortable sharing with you
Finding that spark with a new friend is an amazing feeling. Quality friendships can improve your mood and lower stress/depression. They may help you achieve your goals and support you through tough times. Overall, a new friend can simply improve your mood and build your self-worth!
Nurturing Your New Friendship
Focus on how a budding friendship makes you feel, not on how it looks. You can create, strengthen, and maintain your new friendship by being a good friend. Most importantly:
- Build a connection
- Have fun
- Be a good listener
- Be forgiving
- Nurture the relationship!
Meaningful relationships can be tough to navigate but they are essential to a happy and healthy life. During this month of cheer, check out https://www.helpguide.org/home-pages/love-friendship.htm for more tips and information on healthy relationships.
The Tuscarawas County Board of Developmental Disabilities (TuscBDD) has resources for children and adults with developmental disabilities. TuscBDD provides Early Intervention for children birth to three years old, Service and Support Administration for people of all ages, family support services, family mentorship, and more! To learn more about these services and others, visit TuscBDD online at www.tuscbdd.org or call (330) 308-7173.
Audrey Mattevi, reporting
