Support Systems: What Are They?
Support systems are networks of people that provide practical and emotional support for you. You can improve your overall health by using these support systems, and have been shown to reduce stress and anxiety. Support systems give you someone to rely on when you need them most. Whenever you are facing a difficult situation, there are people you can turn to.
The Building Of A Support System
Anyone who needs support systems should have them. People tend to believe that doing things alone is easier, and only they should be concerned about their own health. But that’s not true at all. Maintaining your mental and physical health requires having a support system, even when things get tough. In order to improve yourself or build new skills, you should surround yourself with the right people. It’s important to have people who support you and cheer you on while you’re going through life. Highland Springs has put together a few helpful tips for building your support team:
- If you want to improve your mood, improve your physical health, and meet new people, you should join a sports team or workout group.
- Select the people who offer the most positive advice from your current social circle and family relationships.
- When you need help, ask for it and accept it with as much grace as possible.
- Introduce yourself to new people through new activities either alone or in groups.
Support System Importance
It can be difficult to fight mental health issues. Sometimes, it can take hold of your life and make you feel unworthy of social interaction or being cared for by others. Even with these thoughts, it is important to remember that everyone deserves to be loved and cared for. Here are several benefits of having a support system and choosing the right people to spend time with.
Supporting one another
Mental illnesses are often exacerbated by isolation. In your most vulnerable moments, the brain can work against you. You may suffer from anxiety, depression, and other conditions due to its confirmation bias.
Connecting with others and interacting with them helps you reconnect with the external world. This may involve having a heart to heart with a friend and seeking helpful advice from them. Alternatively, you may give advice to others. We are all experts at something.
Checking in without prompting
You may feel hesitant to seek help from others when you’re experiencing a particularly bad mental health episode. Dates and get-togethers may seem less appealing to you. Those who respect your space and time will step back and let you come around on your own.
This is a good approach, but your closest friends and family should draw a line. It may take someone reaching out and asking, “Are you okay?” to realise how withdrawn you have become.” This may be the catalyst you need to reset and begin working on your recovery process again.
Influence that is positive
You are often encouraged to adopt healthier behaviours as a result of these unprompted check-ins. You might be encouraged to eat something healthy by your spouse after they get home from work. One of your friends might suggest going to the gym with him. It may be that your mother comes and cleans the house and opens the blinds.
These activities can be annoying on some days. It is even possible to feel frustrated, pressured, and angry. These are also often lifesavers as they provide buoyancy at times when depression may otherwise make you sink to the depths of despair. With time, you will feel more grateful for these moments as you progress through your recovery process.
