Wellness Support

By Stephanie Chadd
Senior Operations Manager, Wellness Support Team, Tamaki Health

Have you ever walked into a room and felt like you belonged?

Maybe it was with friends, whānau, teammates, work colleagues, or a group of people who just seemed to understand what you were going through. It is a simple feeling, but it can make a big difference to how we see ourselves, how we cope with life's challenges, and how we experience wellbeing.

This year's Mental Health Awareness Week theme, Belonging Matters¹, reminds us of something many of us instinctively know: we all need connection. Feeling connected to others is not just nice to have. It is a fundamental part of being human and an important contributor to both mental and physical health.

Unfortunately, many people in our community are feeling increasingly disconnected. The Mental Health Foundation reports that loneliness has increased in New Zealand over the past decade, and more people are reporting feeling lonely some or most of the time².

Working in our GP clinics, we see this every day.

We meet people who are struggling with anxiety, low mood, grief, long-term health conditions, parenting challenges, life transitions, or stress. While everyone's circumstances are different, one thing often sits quietly in the background: a lack of meaningful connection.

Many people tell us they feel alone in what they are experiencing.

They believe nobody else understands.

They withdraw from activities they once enjoyed.

They lose confidence in reaching out.

Over time, this isolation can have a significant impact on wellbeing.

We know through research that loneliness and social isolation are associated with higher rates of depression and anxiety, poorer physical health, increased risk of heart disease and stroke, and even a greater risk of dementia in later life. Health New Zealand notes that social isolation can impact both mental and physical health and is associated with poorer health outcomes across multiple conditions³.

International research paints a similar picture. Age UK's 2024 report found that persistent loneliness is associated with a 29% increased risk of coronary heart disease, a 32% increased risk of stroke, and a 25% increased risk of developing dementia. The report also found that nine out of ten older adults who were frequently lonely reported feeling unhappy or depressed⁴.

While these statistics are concerning, there is another side to the story.

Connection helps.

Belonging helps.

People do better when they feel part of something.

When people feel connected, they are more likely to seek support, engage in healthy behaviours, build resilience, and cope more effectively with difficult situations. Strong social relationships provide encouragement during hard times and remind us that we do not have to face challenges alone.

This is one of the reasons group programmes are such an important part of the work we do within the Wellness Support Team.

Although groups often focus on developing skills, increasing knowledge, or supporting recovery, the benefits go far beyond the programme content itself.

Groups also create opportunities for people to meet others who have had similar experiences. They provide a space where people can share their challenges without fear of judgement. They allow people to learn from each other, celebrate successes together, and realise that they are not alone.

Often, the most valuable thing people take away from a group is not a worksheet or a new technique.

It is the realisation that someone else understands.

That there are other people facing similar struggles.

That support exists.

That they belong.

Across the Wellness Support Team, we are fortunate to offer a diverse range of groups that create opportunities for people to connect, learn and grow together. Whether someone joins our Self-Management Education (SME) programme, the shorter Manage Better Together series, our eight-week Aotearoa Mindfulness and Acceptance (AMA) group, or Mindful Mums sessions; whether a child takes part in Seasons for Growth to navigate grief and loss, a man finds strength and support through our Men's Group, a rangatahi builds resilience in our Youth Coping Skills Group, or someone develops practical wellbeing strategies through Wise Minds DBT Skills, they are becoming part of something bigger than a programme.

They are joining a community. A community where people share experiences, build confidence, develop new skills, and support one another through life's challenges. In these spaces, connection becomes a powerful catalyst for wellbeing, helping people feel seen, understood, and less alone on their journey.

Even small acts of connection can make a meaningful difference. Taking time for a conversation, checking in on a neighbour, inviting someone to join an activity, or simply letting another person know they matter can strengthen belonging and reduce loneliness. Funny thing is even doing something nice for someone else can actually boost your own sense of wellbeing.

Belonging is built through everyday moments.

A welcoming smile.

A shared cup of coffee.

A conversation in a waiting room.

A text message asking how someone is doing.

An invitation to join a group.

These seemingly small actions can have a lasting impact.

This upcoming Mental Health Awareness Week in October, I encourage everyone to think about their own connections and the connections of those around them.

•    Who helps you feel supported?

•    Who makes you feel like you belong?

•    Is there someone in your life who may be feeling isolated and could benefit from a simple check-in?

•    Could joining a group help you build new connections and strengthen your wellbeing?

The evidence is clear that social connection matters. But more importantly, our everyday experiences tell us the same thing.

We all want to feel valued • We all want to feel included • We all want to know that we matter

Because when people feel they belong, wellbeing grows. And stronger connections create stronger individuals, stronger whānau, and stronger communities.

If you feel like you would like to know more about our groups or to access wellbeing support visit our website to find out how you can join one of our group programmes or get more connected through our other wellbeing support services.

•    Belonging matters | Mental Health Awareness Week

•   Mental Health Awareness Week 2026 | Mental Health Foundation

•   Loneliness and isolation

•   you-are-not-alone-in-feeling-lonely---parliamentary-briefing-.pdf

We all want to feel that we belong. Whether it's sharing a laugh, being understood by someone who has faced similar challenges, connecting with your culture and community, or simply knowing you're not alone, belonging plays a powerful role in our wellbeing.

Why Belonging Matters

Belonging and connection are fundamental human needs. Research shows that people who feel connected to others experience better mental and physical health, greater resilience, and an improved ability to cope with life's challenges . On the other hand, loneliness and social isolation can have a significant impact on wellbeing. Feeling disconnected from others has been linked to increased stress, anxiety, depression, and poorer health outcomes. Connection helps protect against these challenges by giving people a sense of support, purpose, and hope.

In Aotearoa, belonging is often rooted in our connections with whānau, friends, culture, faith, and community. Research shows that for many Māori, belonging is strengthened through whānaungatanga (meaningful relationships and connectedness) and manaakitanga (care, support, and respect for others). These connections can strengthen a person's sense of identity, mana, and wellbeing . For many Pacific peoples, it is deeply connected to family, faith, spirituality, church communities, and cultural identity .

These experiences reflect a broader truth across our multicultural communities: trusted relationships, supportive networks, cultural connections, and shared experiences help people feel valued, accepted, and connected, strengthening wellbeing and resilience

Small connections make a big difference

Mental Health Awareness Week reminds us that wellbeing grows through connection. Sometimes belonging comes from spending time with whānau, reconnecting with friends, participating in cultural or faith communities, volunteering, joining a local activity, or simply having a conversation with someone who understands.

Research shows that peer support can play a powerful role in improving wellbeing. Connecting with others who have faced similar challenges can provide reassurance, reduce feelings of isolation, and help people feel understood in ways that are difficult to achieve alone . Hearing other people's stories can create hope, offer practical insights, and remind us that difficulties are often shared rather than faced in isolation. Peer support also helps people recognise their own strengths, build confidence, and develop a greater sense of belonging.

Group programmes create opportunities for these connections to happen naturally. Participants learn from one another, celebrate successes together, share strategies for overcoming challenges, and offer encouragement along the way. Often, the relationships formed within a group become just as valuable as the information or skills being taught.

For many people, the simple realisation that "I am not the only one" can be a powerful step towards improved wellbeing.

Our Wellness Support Team Group Programmes

Our Wellness Support Team wellbeing groups are about more than learning new information or developing new skills. They are opportunities to experience the benefits of peer support, connect with others who understand, and build meaningful relationships within a safe and welcoming environment.

Many participants tell us that one of the most valuable aspects of attending a group is meeting people who genuinely understand what they are going through. Learning alongside others can provide encouragement, new perspectives, practical support, and a sense of hope that change is possible.

While people may join a group to improve their wellbeing, manage a health condition, or learn new skills, many leave with something equally important: a stronger sense of connection and belonging.

Taking the First Step

Joining a group can feel daunting. Many participants tell us they were nervous before attending their first session. Walking into a room full of unfamiliar people can take courage. Yet some of the most meaningful conversations, and greatest personal growth begin with simply showing up.

Our Wellness Support Team groups are free and fully funded for you and your whānau to attend.

Sometimes the most important step towards feeling more connected is taking that first step through the door.

Our groups

Aotearoa Mindfulness and Awareness

Discover mindfulness practices that can help reduce stress, improve wellbeing, and support a healthier, more balanced life.

Participants explore mindfulness meditation, breathing techniques, gentle movement, Te Ao Māori perspectives on wellbeing, psychological approaches, and medical science in a supportive group environment. Learning alongside others can foster connection while developing practical skills to support everyday wellbeing.

Self-Management Education: Manage Better Together

Living with a long-term health condition can feel overwhelming at times. This programme supports people to build the skills, confidence, and knowledge needed to better manage their health and wellbeing.

Whether you are living with diabetes, chronic pain, gout, or looking to develop healthier lifestyle habits, participants learn practical strategies while connecting with others facing similar challenges. Sharing experiences, ideas, and successes can help people feel understood, supported, and empowered.

Seasons for Growth: Grief and Loss Programme

Change, loss, and grief can have a significant impact on children and young people. Seasons for Growth provides a safe and supportive small-group environment where participants can explore their experiences alongside others who may be facing similar challenges.

Through guided activities and discussion, young people develop resilience, strengthen coping skills, and gain confidence in navigating life's changes.

Men's Group

The Men's Group offers a supportive, respectful, and non-judgemental space for men to connect with others, build practical wellbeing skills, and explore strategies for managing life's challenges.

Participants can share experiences, develop communication skills, strengthen social connections, and learn tools to support their mental and emotional wellbeing.

What Participants Say

One of the most powerful aspects of group programmes is the opportunity to connect with others who understand your experiences. Participants often tell us that the sense of connection and belonging they gain is just as valuable as the skills and knowledge they learn.

• "It's a great way to learn from others who are in a similar situation. It's reassuring to know that we are not alone in the way we are feeling and experiencing."

• "It has been designed to help men take notice of their needs and wants. It was a friendly group and helped validate my own feelings and worries after listening to others share their own."

• "The knowledge I have learnt has taught me that it is okay to speak up, without the fear of being judged."

• "It feels like a miracle that we could connect so deeply."

These experiences highlight what belonging can look like in practice: being heard, feeling understood, learning from others, and discovering that you're not alone.

Take a Step Towards Connection

This Mental Health Awareness Week, take a moment to consider what helps you feel connected.

Whether it is spending time with whānau, reconnecting with your culture or community, reaching out to someone you trust, joining a wellbeing programme, or trying something new, every step towards connection matters.

You never know where a conversation, a shared experience, or a single group session might lead. Many people join looking for support and leave with new skills, renewed confidence, meaningful friendships, and a stronger sense of belonging.

Talk with your healthcare team or contact the Wellness Support Team to find out more about current programmes and which option may be right for you. You can email enquiries about our group programmes to wstadmin@tamakihealth.co.nz.

Because belonging is not just about being around other people. It is about feeling seen, valued, accepted, supported, and connected. And when people feel they belong, they are more likely to thrive.