Human beings have a need for social connection. This need stems from our ancestors needing to stick together to stay alive. Back in the day, individuals who strayed from the group had a harder time surviving the elements and finding sufficient food to eat. While it is far safer to live in isolation these days as it relates to survival, isolation is still not healthy for us. Isolation is certainly not good for our mental health and well-being. People suffering from depression and other mental health struggles need the love and encouragement from a support network. In this blog we will explore the importance of social support for mental health.
Social Support Is Vital For Your Mental Health
When we suffer from depression and other mental health struggles, we live with persistent despair at our side.
When we feel these feelings of despair, there is a natural tendency to retreat and isolate ourselves. But this only makes the despair more painful. One of the most helpful first steps towards regaining your mental health is by developing strong social supports for yourself.
The Importance of Social Support
Recovery from depression is a complex process but you don’t need to go it alone. By surrounding yourself with friends and loved-ones, you can continue to feel genuine connections, and each one of those connections is a light that can pierce through the despair.
Research suggests there is a definite link between social relationships and many different aspects of a person’s mental health and wellness. It is for this reason that mental health professionals often discuss the importance of having a strong social network.
Social support comes in many different forms. Sometimes you might need help with daily tasks if you are struggling with depression. Sometimes you may need an ear to listen and a shoulder to cry on, and sometimes you may need some sound guidance.
Whatever you may be going through and whatever kind of help you need, here are some ways you can build a support network of people who love you and care about you.
The following are just a few ways that social supports can move you towards better and more consistent mental health and well-being:
Social Support for Mental Health Tip #1: Creating a List
Make a shortlist of friends and family members who have shown their love, kindness, and support in the past.
Tip #2: Make a Commitment
Commit to reaching out to someone on your list at least once a week (if not more often). You can do this through a phone call, text, email, or in-person.
Social Support for Mental Health Tip #3: Be Honest
The people who love you can only help and support you if you are honest with them. When you reach out, share what is on your mind and heart. Talk openly about any struggles you are dealing with and be sure to be open to any fresh perspective or guidance.
Tip #4: Getting Out As Often As Possible
It’s not always easy to get out and socialize in-person, but doing so is remarkably helpful and healing for our mental health. Phone calls and emails work in a pinch, but nothing beats spending time with loved-ones in-person. Going for a walk with a loved-one is one way to socialize. And besides, going for a walk adds the benefit of physical activity, which makes walking with a loved-one a double win.
Social Support for Mental Health Tip #5: Professional Support
It’s also important to mention that sometimes we need a bit more help than our loved-ones can give. If you feel that you need additional help, it’s vital you reach out to a mental health professional who can give you tools and strategies that will help you recover from depression.
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