Having a healthy mind doesn't just mean dealing with depression or anxiety in a therapist’s view. It's a lot more. Think of your mental health as a G-5 network of multiple streams of connectivity where many different things impact your feelings. One of those factors is how we hang and chill with our friends and families. Out of all the tips and tricks to handle social stress, one golden oldie often gets overlooked from our playlist: etiquette.

First off, let's clear the air. Etiquette isn't a fancy French word for some stuffy list of rules. It's an excellent behavioral code that's all about respect and thoughtfulness. It brings some much needed order and predictability to the wild party we call 'socializing.' If you find social events nerve-wracking, etiquette can be your secret weapon.

The first remarkable thing about etiquette is that it's like a GPS for social conduct, navigating your way through situations that can crush your stress levels. It guides you on many levels: introducing yourself, starting chit-chat, dodging dicey topics, and even making a smooth exit from an uncomfortable conversation. Getting the hang of etiquette means less worrying about messing up, so you can chill and enjoy the event.

The second cool part is that mastering these social norms can pump up your confidence big time. It’ll be like having your own toolkit so you can plow through the social landscape easily. Say goodbye to those awkward moments and hello to a more relaxed you.

Now, if you're the introverted type and you often find yourself breaking out in a sweat at dinners or parties, here are some killer tips for using etiquette to reduce your stress levels:

1. Be a Scout, be prepared: Get to know the basic etiquette for the event you're attending. For a formal dinner, dial up on your table manners, dining etiquette, and dinner talk.

2. Get Your Chat Game On: Small talk is part of any social gig. Make a list of safe and fun topics for conversation. Practice how you'll introduce yourself and keep a conversation rolling.

3. Set Your Limits: Etiquette isn't about making others happy at your expense. If you're uncomfortable it’s perfectly fine to step away from a conversation or situation politely.

4. Stay in the Moment: If you're feeling swamped, pause for a moment to focus on your surroundings. Take a deep breath, enjoy your food, and listen to the music. This can help ground you in the present and ease your nerves.

5. Have a Wingman/Wingwoman: Share your feelings with a trusted friend who will be at the event. Having a supportive friend around can be a source of comfort and relief.

And remember, being an introvert is awesome. Don't feel pressured to fit into the extrovert shaped mold that society pushes. Sometimes, we end up in situations where we’re looking for an emergency escape route. But with etiquette in your arsenal, you can sail through them with grace and style, boosting your mental health and personal growth in the process.