It is believed by experts that nearly everyone experiences gains from social and emotional assistance. Additionally, having a solid social support system can enhance one’s ability to handle personal difficulties independently by boosting self-esteem and self-sufficiency. Over the past few decades, multiple studies have been conducted to examine the impact of social support on various aspects such as health, quality of life, and particularly mental well-being.
Establishing a network of optimistic and compassionate individuals provides various advantages, including heightened responsibility, enhanced physical and emotional wellness, superior problem-solving abilities, and improved brain functionality. It has also been shown that support systems aid in sustaining and yielding benefits for both physical and emotional well-being.
Interacting with others could potentially enhance brain activity and mental acuity. Having a positive support system can assist individuals or patients in maintaining a healthy equilibrium amidst tough or demanding periods.
When considering our nature as social creatures, it is important to recognize that our brains are designed to interact and engage with others. As a result, one crucial aspect of fostering overall well-being and recovery is to have a network of optimistic and supportive individuals around us. To begin this process, the following suggestions can be helpful.
Benefits of a support system
Research indicates that the presence of a support network offers numerous advantages. Individuals who possess support systems tend to experience extended lifespans and better overall health, as well as enhanced levels of happiness. These communities can assist in fostering resilience during periods of grief and tension, while simultaneously enhancing one’s well-being during favorable circumstances.
When you’re feeling down or overwhelmed, having supportive relationships can also provide emotional strength. Your loved ones can lend an ear and empathize with your fears and concerns, making sure you feel acknowledged and comprehended. Additionally, they can collaborate with you to address problems and explore alternative solutions, while also assisting in diverting your attention from the current situation.
Tips to create an effective support system
Creating a support system is a gradual process that cannot be achieved instantly. Although you can gather individuals you come across, such as classmates or colleagues, it usually requires more than just sharing a physical space to incorporate someone into your desired support network.
1. Determine who you want in your support system
If you seek individuals who demonstrate kindness, respect, and genuine concern for your well-being, it is equally important to recognize that the same principle applies in reverse. Should you find yourself engaged in a relationship that no longer benefits you, there is no obligation to continue fostering that relationship.
You have the choice to either not consider certain individuals as sources of support, or to not consider them for specific types of support. This advice is relevant not only to romantic partners, but also to friendships.
2. Connect with a professional
Engaging with professionals such as therapists, mental health counselors, and Health Coaches is a constructive initial action in establishing a support system. These professionals not only provide assistance with everyday difficulties, but also explore the root causes of smaller issues. Additionally, they can offer guidance on expanding your network beyond your association with them.
3. Build confidence
In addition to feeling good about oneself, self-confidence entails the belief in deserving love, the recognition of the value of one’s thoughts, feelings, and goals, and the trust in one’s own abilities. Initiating a confidence boost can be facilitated by surrounding oneself with positive influences.
4. Attend a support group
Support groups are a common starting point for individuals seeking to establish their support networks. These groups cater to a diverse range of experiences, but all have a shared objective. Given that members are grappling with similar problems, they can provide a distinct comprehension of your present obstacles.
5. Find a hobby
Engaging in hobbies is an uncomplicated yet powerful means to form a community. Pursuing activities like knitting, hiking, cooking, or pottery enhances the potential support network. It is not necessary to physically partake in the hobby together; online communities can be equally as robust as those established with individuals encountered in person.
6. Get to know your neighbors
Your neighbors can encompass the individuals residing in close proximity to your home, as well as colleagues situated in adjacent desks, individuals you come across in common areas on a college campus, or those you encounter every morning at the coffee shop. By making an active effort to acquaint yourself with these individuals, even if it is just to exchange greetings, you can initiate the process of constructing your support network.
7. Find the positives
It is ingrained in human nature to concentrate on the negative aspects, but it is possible to change this mindset. Similar to developing any other muscle, fostering positive thinking requires deliberate effort, patience, and dedication. Being positive attracts positive outcomes, and even the act of forcing oneself to smile has been proven to enhance happiness.
8. Build on existing bonds
When considering sources of support, it is likely that the people you have known for a long time will be your strongest allies. This could be a friend, family member, or someone who is close to you. It is important to stay connected with them and maintain the relationship by using different methods of communication. Express your appreciation for them and let them know how much they mean to you. Starting a conversation can be as simple as reaching out to say hello or offering assistance with a task.
9. Join your own choice of groups
To connect with people who have similar interests, consider joining a specific organization, club, or engaging in volunteer activities. Another option is to take a class where you can enhance your skills and meet individuals who share your hobbies. Numerous exciting opportunities are available for connecting with like-minded individuals through your interests or choices.
10. Train your brain to find the positives
Though it may be difficult and demanding, developing this habit is valuable. Individuals adept at appreciating positivity will naturally be drawn to you. Additionally, you will observe an enhancement in your mood as well as an accumulation of positive experiences that will positively influence your life.
11. Be proactive by reaching out to others
To maximize the benefits of your social relationships, it is necessary to actively reach out to them. Allocate additional time for your loved ones and close friends. Extend a helping hand or simply greet them while inquiring about their well-being. By being present for others, they will likely reciprocate and offer their support to you. The act of providing social support to friends and family may hold even greater significance than receiving such support.
12. Improve your social skills
To begin cultivating a positive support system, it is crucial to improve your level of social skills. Instead of contacting others monthly, consider reaching out to them on a bi-weekly basis.
To get acquainted with others, try engaging in activities together such as walking, pursuing common hobbies, or going for a bike ride instead of relying solely on text messages or passive interactions. In case you still struggle with shyness, awkwardness, or excessive anxiety in social settings, seeking guidance from a therapist specialized in social anxiety and social skills training may be beneficial.
13. Accept help
Not all of us have the intuitive ability to approach people and ask for help.
Many individuals are reluctant to seek help due to the fear of being perceived as weak when in need of aid to tackle their issues. However, it is important to note that our loved ones genuinely want to assist us, as evidenced by their offers such as “If you need anything, just let me know.” Therefore, if we fail to ask for help, we will not receive it.
14. Find nonhuman support
Plants, pets, and even stuffed animals have the ability to bring immense comfort during stressful times. They offer a non-judgmental ear, evoke a sense of responsibility, and establish a connection that is equally gratifying as that with a human.
15. Be patient
Building trusting and healthy relationships is a gradual process that requires time. Discovering the group of individuals you can depend on is not something that can be achieved swiftly; it frequently requires a lifetime. As you come across new people and broaden your social circle, you can come to value the effort and time invested in constructing these connections.
The importance of sustaining your support system
In order for relationships to be successful and sustainable, it is necessary to consistently put in effort. Some relationships may not need daily communication to remain strong, but others do. By regularly communicating with the individuals in your support system, any misunderstandings about the necessary aspects for each relationship to endure can be avoided.
Here are a few suggestions for keeping these relationships intact:
- Show your appreciation. Tell your friends and family how important they are to you and thank them for all they give you.
- Stay in touch through phone calls, texts, and email.
- Be available when you’re needed. True friends come through when times are tough. Be a good listener and allow your friends to confide freely and without being judged.
- Support their successes. When you care for someone, you want to see them succeed.
- Be honest. Communication is key with all relationships. If someone does something that hurts you, let them know in a healthy way.
- Respect the needs of others. Everyone has their limit for social interactions. Know your limits or boundaries and respect those of others, even if they differ from yours.
- Learn their love languages (this isn’t just for romantic relationships!). Ways in which you want to be cared for and appreciated may not be the same for members of your support system.
When considering your support system, it is important to remember that its purpose is to alleviate stress rather than amplify it. Its role should involve backing your aspirations and endeavors, rather than ridiculing your emotions, sabotaging your other connections, or dismissing your sentiments.
