ABOUT i-CONNECT
Schools have an important role to play in implementing programs that foster healthy friendships among young people and in doing so preventing the development of feelings of loneliness, rejection and social isolation. Students who have friends to turn to and who they can rely on are more likely to have enhanced mental and physical health, social and emotional well-being, and higher academic achievement. Therefore, the enhancement of relationship capacity and the promotion of healthy relationships among young people are key elements in the school domain. Here are some ways you can ensure your school is doing its part in promoting healthy social relationships for all students:
Loneliness is normal, irrespective of age; however habitual loneliness can be detrimental to a person’s physical and mental health. Developing social skills and effective strategies to communicate assists young people to build gratifying social relationships which leads to more positive mental well-being. Teachers play a key role in helping students develop the skills necessary to successfully interact and socialize with others. Research shows that connectedness to teachers is a significant factor in the positive wellbeing of young people.
i-Connect will be of benefit to all students as it provides self-paced engaging and interacting strategies and activities to help students to: develop friendship skills, value others, communicate well, join in conversations, and to learn about (and manage) the experiences of loneliness, inclusive conversations, virtual friends and relaxation.
At this time of their life young people tend to develop closer ties with friends and peers. However, it is still quite normal to have some feelings of loneliness. In fact over 70% of young people feel lonely at some time. This is not always a bad thing as nearly all young people like to have some time on their own so that they can relax, just get away from it all or chill out. i-Connect is an easy to navigate program developed for young people that explores the importance of friendships, feelings of loneliness and how we might make better use of time on our own.
Loneliness is normal, irrespective of age. In a recent worldwide press release the British Broadcasting Corporation demonstrated that there are more lonely young people than older people. Imagine being a young person with no one to turn to, being shy in social settings or at times such as starting a new school. As a parent it is difficult when you realise that your child may be struggling with loneliness. All is not lost as there are many things you can do to help!