Diving into your support system

     In an article published by Highland Springs Specialty Clinic, Dr. Julia Hood Ph.D. explained the importance of a support system and how it can positively benefit your mental health. She noted that a recent report by the U.S. National Institute of Mental Health suggests that one in six American adults faces mental health problems. Dr. Hood defined a support system as "a network of people that can provide you with practical or emotional support." Building a support system can help individuals facing mental health issues improve their overall health and reduce stress and anxiety. Social support can come in many forms and can vary in effect from person to person. Healthy distractions, positive influence, and moral upbringing can help assist in the ways to show support to others. These only name a few variables that can influence an individual's support, as many things can alter the change in an individual's backing.

The second article I depicted was by Caitlin Harper, a mental health activist, and researcher. She analyzed the importance of a support system and ways that an individual can build their own. A strong mental health support system should consist of caring, stable people who show compassion and love. While building a support system for others is important, it is also important to practice self-care, build strong coping mechanisms, and set boundaries. To build a support system, it is important to think about what you want from your support system, varies who is in your support system, and make an effort to nurture it. Friends, family, coworkers, and community members are all potential candidates for a support system, and it is also possible to find support online or through therapy. Near the end of Harper's article, she made note that "your support network doesn’t have to be super wide, but the relationships should be deep; these are folks you can count on through the good times and the bad." Taking the stance that these individuals should also be able to rely on you in tough situations, leaning on you for support.

Ph.D., Dr. Julia Hood. “The Benefits and Importance of a Support System: Highland Springs Clinic.” Highland Springs, 26 July 2022, https://highlandspringsclinic.org/the-benefits-and-importance-of-a-support-system/.

Harper, Caitlin. “How to Build a Support System for Your Mental Health.” How to Build a Support System For Your Mental Health, 20 Sept. 2022, https://mywellbeing.com/therapy-101/how-to-build-a-support-system.