BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) – May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and leaders at UAB are talking about the importance of interpersonal relationships.

An interpersonal relationship is the bond between two people. Having strong connections can help decrease stress levels, provide emotional support, and help navigate difficulties.

Director of UAB’s Community Counseling Clinic, Dr. Yusen Zhai, said through the summer, college students may struggle with their interpersonal relationships. That is because they are away from campus and their peers. He encourages them to build new relationships.

“Don’t be afraid of building new relations because its always good to expand your social network that can provide additional social support”,” said Dr. Zhai.

Zhai says to better foster relationships while away from campus is to periodically check in with friends.

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