5 min read

JUNE 2025

Building relationships that thrive

Remember when making friends was as simple as having the same favorite color? As we get older, relationships can be a bit more complicated — especially for men. Many men struggle with loneliness. And feeling lonely can make connecting and reaching out to others more difficult.¹

Looking for more? Find other articles below

Grow your network at work

Many people feel disconnected and alone at times in life. And loneliness can be as harmful to your health as smoking.² One way to expand your network is with the people you’re around every day. Engaging with those you work with can build a sense of belonging and community.

Another way to connect is with Supportiv. Supportiv offers 24/7/365 peer-to-peer mental health support through small, moderated group chats. You can chat anonymously with other people who can relate to what you’re going through. Just type a few words about your struggle to connect with others who can relate.

Here’s what Costco employees are saying about Supportiv:

“I feel better. It was nice talking to someone else about something like this without being judged.”

“Just having someone to talk to lifted my spirits.”

Make time for quality time

Balancing work and life can make it hard to nurture relationships. You can spend every day with someone, but that doesn’t mean you’re in the moment. Learn to put your phone down and be present. Here are some ways to connect and reconnect:

For friends: When was the last time you spoke to certain friends? Try to make plans and stick to them. Or catch up with friends who live far away over video chat.
For significant others: Set regular date nights or activities. They don’t have to be costly or complicated. It’s about committing your time and attention.
For children: Children who spend more quality time with their parents tend to be happier and healthier. And it can also help them feel safe turning to you if they need help.
For yourself: One way to connect with yourself is with a hobby you enjoy, like cooking or hiking — or try a new one. Another way is through therapy. Talkspace offers 24/7 access to licensed therapists over video-chat or text. Each week of chat therapy counts as one of your free sessions. You also have the option to meet with your therapist online for 30-minute televideo sessions.

Build stronger relationships with Resources for Living®

Did you know Resources for Living (RFL) has tips for healthier relationships? This includes ways to manage conversations and communication at home or in the workplace.

Check out the Men’s Health Guide for mainland employees for more benefits that support healthy relationships.

Source(s):

¹Talkspace. Male loneliness: the unspoken struggle.
²PBS.com. Loneliness poses health risks as deadly as smoking, U.S. surgeon general says.
³National Library of Medicine (NIH). The effect of the time parents spend with children on children’s well-being.