When interacting with someone, show them you are interested in them by smiling, facing them, maintaining good eye contact, and actively listening to them. You can also ask questions and think of topics to talk about in advance.

Think about enhancing your opportunities for building social support and interaction. University is a great place for this – you can connect to your university’s student association, investigate clubs, societies, sport and interest groups and social events run specifically for students. You can also try and connect with other students in your courses.

Perhaps you might doubt your worth and whether you are deserving of good relationships with others. You may have thought that others will find you boring or will have no interest in being close to you. Perhaps you believe that others will not understand you, or that you don’t belong. Try and notice if you hold any unhelpful thoughts about relationships, and whether you can challenge any of these using a thought record. For help with how to complete a though record, see our module on "Tackling negative or anxious thoughts".