Strengthening Relationships for Better Mental Health

Strengthening Relationships to Support Mental Health

Healthy, balanced relationships are the cornerstone of a fulfilling life. Whether with family members, coworkers, or our broader community, the health of our connections can greatly impact our lives and overall well-being. At Mental Wellness Center, we recognize the importance of connections and how essential they are for emotional resilience.

In her best-selling book Let Them, Mel Robbins, offers powerful insights into how shifting our perspective on personal connections can dramatically improve our mental health.

How Our Relationships Impact Mental Health

Research consistently shows that strong, positive relationships are associated with lower rates of anxiety, depression, and stress. Supportive social networks contribute to greater self-esteem, better coping mechanisms, and even longer life expectancy.

However, relationships can also become sources of stress. Whether it’s a family member who doesn’t respect boundaries, a coworker who creates tension, or the pressure of community expectations, navigating these relationships thoughtfully is crucial.

Insights from Mel Robbins’ Let Them

One of the key lessons Mel Robbins shares in Let Them, is the idea that we often suffer emotionally because we try to control how others behave or think about us.

“When you say Let Them, you make a conscious decision not to allow other people’s behavior to bother you. When you say Let Me, you take responsibility for what YOU do next.” — Mel Robbins

Robbins encourages us to shift our focus away from changing others, and instead focus on nurturing our own mental space—an empowering step toward lasting mental wellness.

Relationships at Home, Work, and in Our Community

• Practice active listening and validate each other’s feelings.
• Set and maintain healthy boundaries, especially when interactions become emotionally draining.
• Remember Robbins’ message: you cannot change others, only how you respond to them.

• Foster open communication and mutual respect.
• Recognize when you need to “let them” (coworkers, bosses) act how they choose—and focus on your own professionalism and peace.

• Engage with causes and communities that align with your values.
• Release the need to be accepted everywhere—it’s healthier to build deep, genuine connections than to seek broad approval.