2026 is putting us through our paces, and now more than ever we need our friends and connection. For Mental Health Awareness Month, Collective is spreading the message - connection is a form of medical care. The loneliness epidemic has made it clear that isolation is a significant health risk. And, maintaining social health takes intention and care. Clinical research suggests that social fitness—the practice of maintaining regular, meaningful connections—is just as essential to your well-being as physical exercise. It is the active training of our sense of belonging. We need our circle of friends to train our senses of humour and our party tricks. Another aspect is checking in on your circle of friends. Collective members and allies foster real-world networks that sustain us through the highs and lows. Checking in on your friends is the most effective way to combat the drain of the modern social landscape. If the struggle becomes more than you can manage alone, Collective offers a direct path to help. You can find resources and a helpline website by clicking the Mental Health Support button in your profile settings. We are stronger when we are connected.