In discussions about relationships, "social support" is often used. Social support is having people help you in times of crisis or need. It can also mean having friends to help you with your self-image and a broader focus. Social support can improve the quality of life and provide a buffer against adverse life events.
There are many forms of social support:
Emotional support (sometimes called "non-tangible") refers to actions taken to make another person feel loved.
Instrumental support is financial, like money or housekeeping.
Informational support is the act of providing information to assist someone.
In 1905, one of the earliest studies to examine the psychological and physical health benefits of social assistance was done. An internist from Boston, Dr Joseph Pratt, brought together a group of tuberculosis sufferers to teach them hygiene. This "support group", which was formed in early 2000, provided evidence of the effectiveness of psychological support in healing and physical health.
What can I do to benefit?
Find out more about social networks. It has been proven that stress can harm the brain and body and affect immune function. Social networks can provide security and a sense of belonging.
Social support has been proven to be a lifesaver. Supported by close friendships with family members, friends, colleagues at work, church, or other support groups, people are less likely to succumb to illness and death. People with leukaemia and heart disease will have higher survival rates if they have a lot of social support. Social support is a strong determinant of well-being. People close to their loved ones respond better to various stressors such as grief and job loss.
Are there any warnings?
You should feel at ease with any social support group. It's unlikely that you will ever disagree with your family or friends, and however, spending time with them should allow you to feel comfortable with their beliefs, practices, and expectations.
The power of a group
Many types of group support have a healing and health focus. Twelve-step groups are created around a specific life problem (e.g. drug or alcohol dependency, gambling, overeating, etc.) Resilience training incorporates mindfulness meditation as a core concept.