We all need to feel that we belong and are accepted, respected and supported by others. Having a sense of belonging is so important because it means we fit in, feel safe and can be our true, authentic selves. Communities can provide this, whether it’s the community where you live, friends, colleagues, a religious community or facebook group. These are all places we can feel seen, understood and valued.
Communities can provide us with a sense of belonging, safety, support in hard times, and give us purpose. But when that sense of belonging is lacking, it can affect our mental health in quiet but powerful ways.
Why Belonging Matters
Belonging is more than being in a crowd. It’s the feeling of being safe to be yourself, of knowing that you are part of something, and that your presence makes a difference.
It’s what helps us:
- Cope with stress
- Build resilience
- Feel hopeful
- Stay connected during tough time
Psychologically, belonging is as vital as food and shelter. It’s a core emotional need for us to be able to function in the world and maintain our emotional wellbeing.
Studies have shown many positive effects of having a good sense of belonging including:
- More positive social relationships
- Academic achievement
- Occupational success
- Better physical and mental health.
What Happens When We Feel We Don’t Belong?
A lack of belonging can make us feel:
- Isolated — even when surrounded by people
- Unworthy — believing we’re not “enough” to be accepted
- Disconnected — from others, from ourselves, from purpose
- Low or anxious — as if something is wrong.
Over time, this can lead to withdrawal, self-doubt, or even depression. Humans are wired for connection, and when that connection is broken, our mental health can suffer.
Where Does Belonging Come From?
Belonging can come from many places:
- In our local communities — neighbours, shared spaces, familiar faces
- Through interest-based groups — clubs, hobbies, or causes we care about
- Within faith or cultural communities — spaces rooted in shared values
- Through workplaces that support inclusion and wellbeing
- In friendships and family, when we feel accepted for who we are
- And most importantly — through a relationship with ourselves
Belonging starts to grow when we feel safe, welcomed, and able to show up as we are.
How Can We Improve Our Sense of Belonging?
The good news is: belonging can be built.
Here are a few small but powerful steps to begin:
1. Reach out — even if it feels awkward: That message, that smile, that check-in — it matters. You never know how much someone else might be needing it too.
2. Join something: A walking group. A book club. A volunteering project. A local class. Sometimes, belonging starts by simply showing up.
3. Be honest about how you’re feeling: Vulnerability creates real connection. Try sharing how you’re really doing — even with just one person.
4. Welcome others in: If you see someone on the edge of a group, say hello. Invite them in. Creating belonging for someone else often builds it in ourselves too.
5. Be kinder to yourself: The more we accept ourselves, the easier it is to let others in. You don’t have to be perfect to be worthy of connection.
You Deserve to Belong
Everyone deserves to feel like they belong and that includes you.
If you’re feeling alone right now, reach out, rebuild and reconnect within a community.
When we feel we belong, we connect more deeply with others, contribute more fully and develop and grow as individuals. So don’t underestimate the power of community and how the sense of belonging can benefit your mental health.
