UQ Wellness Health Promotion campaigns

A sense of belonging is more than just being acquainted with others; it’s about feeling accepted, supported, and connected to a group. Whether it’s your family, friends, workplace, or community, this innate need to affiliate with others plays a significant role in our lives. There are many reasons why having a sense of belonging matters:

• Emotional wellbeing and happiness - Research has shown that people who feel a strong sense of belonging tend to be happier and more satisfied with their lives 
• Physical and mental health benefits - Belonging has tangible effects on our health, such as:
  • Reduced Stress - Social ties act as protective factors, helping us manage stress more effectively 
  • Longevity - Studies suggest that people with strong social connections tend to live longer. Having a sense of belonging contributes to overall well-being and even impacts our lifespan 
  • Mental Health - A lack of belonging has been associated with mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Conversely, feeling connected can alleviate these struggles
• Motivation and engagement – feeling like we belong fuels our motivation. When we feel like we are part of a group, we’re more likely to engage in activities, contribute, and work toward shared goals.
• Identity and self-worth - Belonging helps shape our identity. We define ourselves partly through our affiliations—with our culture, religion, hobbies, or social circles. When we belong, we feel validated, seen, and valued.
• Overcoming painful emotions – when life throws curveballs—loss, rejection, heartache. Having a sense of belonging acts as a buffer. It can remind us that we’re not alone in our struggles.

Here are some ways to foster a sense of belonging:

• Join communities and groups
  • Seek out clubs, organisations, or online communities that align with your interests. Being part of a group provides a sense of shared purpose.
• Attend social events
  • Participate in gatherings, workshops, or social events. These interactions allow you to connect with others, share experiences, and build relationships.
• Be open and approachable
  • Smile, make eye contact, and be receptive to conversations. Approach others with kindness and genuine interest. Sometimes, a simple “hello” can lead to meaningful connections.
• Volunteer or contribute
  • Contributing to a cause or volunteering your time creates a sense of purpose. It also connects you with like-minded individuals who share your values.
• Practice active listening
  • When you engage in conversations, truly listen to others. Show empathy and validate their experiences. Feeling heard and understood strengthens bonds.
• Share personal stories
  • Vulnerability fosters connection. Share your experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Others will relate, and you’ll find common ground.
• Celebrate traditions and rituals
  • Participate in cultural or family traditions. These rituals create a sense of continuity and belonging.
• Create inclusive spaces
  • Be mindful of inclusivity. Ensure that everyone feels welcome and respected. Celebrate diversity and appreciate different perspectives.
• Reach out to others
  • Initiate conversations, invite people for coffee, or organise outings. Sometimes, taking the first step can lead to lasting friendships.
• Be patient and persistent
  • Building connections takes time. Be patient and persistent. 

International Day for the Elimination Racial Discrimination, also known as Harmony Day – 18-24 March 2024

Harmony Day/Week is about inclusiveness, respect and belonging for all Australians, regardless of cultural or linguistic background, united by a set of core Australian values.
It is a time to celebrate Australian multiculturalism, and the successful integration of migrants into our community.
Australia is one of the most successful multicultural countries in the world and we should celebrate this and work to maintain it.
Visit the Harmony Week website to learn more about Harmony Week.

For many Queenslanders, spending time in the sun is intrinsic to the culture and climate. So, it comes as no surprise we have one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, with melanoma the most common cancer in young Australians aged 15 to 29.

For best protection, avoid being out in the sun in the middle of the day, when the UV levels are most intense. The Cancer Council recommends a combination of the following sun protection measures when the UV level is 3 or above:

1. Slip on some sun-protective clothing that covers as much skin as possible.
2. Slop on broad spectrum, water resistant SPF30 (or higher) sunscreen. Put it on 20 minutes before you go outdoors and every two hours afterwards. Sunscreen should never be used to extend the time you spend in the sun.
3. Slap on a hat – broad brim or legionnaire style to protect your face, head, neck and ears.
4. Seek shade.
5. Slide on some sunglasses – make sure they meet Australian Standards.

Most skin cancers can be treated successfully if detected early. Therefore, it is important to know your skin and check it regularly to catch any suspicious lumps or spots as early as possible.

Visit Be SunSmart for more information

Sun Safety Awareness webinar 

Presented by UQ Wellness and Bupa, this webinar aims to help participants learn more about skin cancer, sun exposure and making sure to not miss out on the benefits of Vitamin D.

View recorded webinar
Webinar access password: UniQLD123
Access available until Monday 20th May 2024

Useful resources

UV Level app - SunSmart Global UV app
Qld Health Healthflix presents - Sunshine. You do the 5. You Survive.
Cancer Council's skin cancer identification poster
AltiusLife* article - The Silent Killer | Understanding Melanoma
Bupa Tip Sheet - Keeping safe in the sun

*First time AltiusLife users: registration code uqwellness