In Conversation: Navigating Social Wellness with Carey Hicks

I’m honored to be your REACH Advisor for July as we spotlight Social Wellness Month. If you’d told me a few years ago that something as simple as a coffee break with a coworker or a quick chat with a neighbor could be so crucial to my wellbeing, I might’ve shrugged it off. But now, after years in HR and plenty of life experience—both the highs and the lows—I truly believe that our connections are the hidden superpower behind thriving people and workplaces.

What Does Social Wellness Mean to Me?

To me, social wellness isn’t just about who you know or how many people you text. It’s about those moments when someone really sees you, when you feel like you belong somewhere—whether it’s at work, at home, or in your community. It’s knowing you’ve got a safety net, people you can lean on when things get tough, and who’ll celebrate with you when things go right.

Building Healthy Relationships

I’ve learned that real connections don’t just happen by accident. They take a little effort—checking in, reaching out, sometimes just asking, “Hey, how are you really?” Those small gestures have led to some of the most meaningful conversations and support in my life.

Mental Health & Social Connection

There’s a reason why tough times feel a bit lighter when you’re not alone. My own support network—friends, family, and amazing colleagues—has gotten me through more than a few rough patches. That’s why I’m passionate about making it easier to talk about mental health at work. When we open up, we make it safe for others to do the same.

Community Engagement & Belonging

Finding your people—whether it’s through volunteering, joining a club, or just showing up to a company event—can make all the difference. I’ll never forget how a simple virtual coffee chat made me feel included here at Capella Space, even when I was new and still finding my footing.

Digital vs. In-Person Connection

Don’t get me wrong, I love a good Slack thread or a quick text. But nothing beats the energy of a face-to-face conversation, a shared laugh, or even a knowing glance across the room. I try to balance the convenience of tech with the warmth of real-life moments—sometimes, a hug from a friend is all it takes to feel connected and well.

Workplace Social Wellness

In my HR role, I’ve seen how a little attention to social wellness can transform a workplace. When people feel seen and valued, they’re more engaged, more creative, and more likely to stick around. It’s not always about big gestures—sometimes, it’s just making space for people to connect, celebrate wins, or take a breather together.

Addressing Barriers

Building connections isn’t always easy. Remote work, cultural differences, or even just feeling shy can get in the way. But when we acknowledge these challenges and offer support—whether it’s through employee assistance, inclusive events, or just being a friendly face—we make it a little easier for everyone to find their place.

Carey Hicks is a REACH Advisor the Vice President of Human Resources as Capella Space, an American space technology company that provides high-resolution Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), SAR imagery, and data services.

My Takeaway

Social wellness isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity—for our happiness, our health, and our ability to show up as our best selves. By making time for each other, being open, and bui

lding communities where everyone belongs, we’re not just helping ourselves—we’re making the world a little brighter, one connection at a time.

What does social wellness mean to you?

I’d love to hear your stories and ideas—let’s make this month about more than just awareness. Let’s make it about real connection. Thanks for letting me share a bit of my heart with you. Here’s to a connected, uplifting Social Wellness Month!