This year’s Mental Health Awareness Week 2026 theme,“Belonging Matters,” is a powerful reminder that meaningful connections can change lives.
As human beings, we all want to feel like we belong. We want to know that someone notices us, cares about us, and is there when we need support. A sense of belonging helps us feel safe, valued and connected, all of which are important foundations for positive mental wellbeing.
At Big Buddy, belonging is at the heart of everything we do.
Why Belonging Matters
For many boys, growing up without a consistent male role model can leave a gap in their lives. While every family’s circumstances are different, having a trusted adult outside the family can provide encouragement, guidance and a sense of stability during some of their most important developmental years.
A Big Buddy offers more than just activities and outings. They offer friendship, consistency and someone who genuinely cares.
Whether it’s kicking a ball around, sharing a meal, working on a project together or simply having a conversation, these moments help boys feel seen, heard and valued. Over time, those moments build trust, confidence and a stronger sense of belonging.
Connection Supports Mental Wellbeing
Research consistently shows that strong social connections are linked to improved mental wellbeing.
In New Zealand, more than 760,000 people aged 15 and over report feeling lonely at least some of the time. Loneliness and social isolation can affect people of all ages and backgrounds, highlighting just how important meaningful relationships are to our wellbeing.
For young people, mentoring can be particularly powerful. Research has found that mentoring programmes can improve emotional wellbeing, increase self-esteem and help reduce anxiety and withdrawal behaviours.
When a boy knows there is someone in his corner who believes in him, it can make a lasting difference.
The Impact Goes Both Ways
One of the most rewarding aspects of mentoring is that the benefits are often shared.
While Big Buddies sign up to support a young person, many tell us that the relationship has a profound impact on their own lives too. Mentoring provides an opportunity to build a meaningful connection, contribute to the community and make a tangible difference in someone else’s life.
Volunteering is recognised as a way to build social connections, strengthen communities and support personal wellbeing. Many volunteers report gaining a stronger sense of purpose, fulfilment and belonging through their involvement.
As one Big Buddy recently shared:
“I originally signed up because I wanted to help a young person, but I’ve gained just as much from the experience. Watching my Little Buddy grow in confidence has been incredibly rewarding.”
Creating Communities Where Everyone Belongs
Mental Health Awareness Week encourages us to think about the role we all play in helping others feel connected.
Belonging doesn’t always come from grand gestures. Often, it comes from showing up consistently, listening, sharing experiences and making time for someone else.
That’s exactly what Big Buddies do.
Every match creates a relationship built on trust and connection. Those relationships help boys feel a stronger sense of belonging while also enriching the lives of the mentors who volunteer their time.
Could You Be a Big Buddy?
This Mental Health Awareness Week, we invite you to reflect on the impact a positive connection can have.
If you’ve ever considered becoming a mentor, now could be the perfect time to take the first step.
By becoming a Big Buddy, you’ll help a boy feel supported, valued and connected, while building a meaningful relationship that can enrich your own life too.
Because when belonging matters, mentoring matters.
