Building Belonging: How Connection Helps Prevent Youth Substance Use

A recent report from the United States Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Hallegere Murthy, emphasizes a key takeaway: a child’s sense of connection and belonging is essential to their well-being. When kids feel connected—to their families, schools, and communities—they thrive. They’re more confident, resilient, and better equipped to handle life’s challenges.

But connection and belonging isn’t just a feel-good concept—it’s a proven protective factor. Kids who feel valued and included can better manage stress, avoid risky behaviors, and make healthier choices. They are less likely to turn to substances or other harmful coping mechanisms because they already have something far more powerful: a strong support system.

The best part? Creating a connection doesn’t require grand gestures or perfect parenting. It happens in small, everyday moments.

Connection is a Protective Factor

When youth feel they belong, they develop a strong foundation of trust, self-worth, and emotional security. This foundation helps them navigate challenges, build resilience, and stay engaged in positive environments.

Parents and caregivers play a critical role in fostering this sense of connection and belonging. Small, everyday actions can make a lasting impact:

• Encourage open conversations: Knowing they can talk with you makes a difference, even if your child doesn’t open up immediately.
• Create meaningful family routines: Shared meals, bedtime check-ins, or weekend traditions provide comfort and stability.
• Celebrate individuality: Recognizing youth for who they are, rather than just what they achieve, helps them feel genuinely seen and valued.

A child’s first experience of belonging starts at home, but it doesn’t stop there—a strong connection to the broader community is just as important.

The Role of Community

When family provides the foundation for belonging, a strong connection to the broader community reinforces it. Schools, sports teams, clubs, and local organizations help kids expand their support systems, form meaningful relationships, and develop a sense of purpose.

Encouraging kids to engage in these spaces—whether through extracurricular activities, mentorship programs, or volunteer opportunities—helps strengthen their confidence and resilience. For families in New Hampshire, many resources are available to support parents and caregivers in fostering these connections.

Connection and Belonging is the Foundation for a Healthy Future

Helping the youth in your life feel connected isn’t just about making them feel good in the moment—it’s about shaping their future. When children grow up knowing they are valued and supported, they carry that sense of belonging with them. It influences how they handle challenges, their choices, and the types of relationships they seek as they age.

Every interaction can strengthen that foundation, whether at home, in school, or in the community. By fostering connection and belonging in everyday ways, we give the youth we care for the best chance to grow into confident, resilient, and healthy adults.

If you’re looking for ways to build stronger connections, the resources below can help. Because at the end of the day, belonging isn’t just important—it’s essential!