Loneliness, mental health challenges and substance use have risen in our culture. In the midst of suffering, people continue to report feeling judged and stigmatized. We know from the research that there’s a strong correlation between early childhood trauma, mental and physical health issues. Guided by science, empathy, a trauma-informed lens and type 2 thinking, we’ll debunk myths and begin moving away from “us versus them” toward a vision that “we” can heal, connect and thrive together. Armed with powerful insights we can begin to find sustainable solutions by becoming compassionate, resilient, and self-healing communities. This training provides an overview of the science of positive experiences, how ACEs and stigma greatly increase the risk for isolation and loneliness. This approach reduces barriers to improve health equity, resilience, and connection to support well-being.