It’s an age-old adage to believe in “strength in numbers,” and the fact that this saying has been spun around into many takes, we can all conclude that connection and collaboration are essential to our very nature and allows us to reach our best versions. In fact, even the most successful companies acknowledge the importance of hearing everyone’s voice through advocacy group partnerships, and the same camaraderie can also be seen among community organizations.
However, despite cooperation and relying on one another being the most important thing amidst these trying times, it seems that far too many people have closed their arms and shut themselves tight, opting for the lone wolf persona. Sadly, this closed-minded perspective on life is destructive, especially during a global pandemic, which is why we encourage everyone to step out of their comfort zones and build their own support systems for their mental health and well-being.
Why Even Bother Building a Support System?
Humans are social beings by nature. While many of us are confident in being autonomous, self-reliant, and needing only the necessities to pass our days, encumbering yourself with too much stress on your own is not sustainable. An effective support system provides you with an accessible safety cushion for when you fall flat during your lows, and because people are there to help you stand back up, you won’t hit the ground as hard.
- One Cannot Shoulder All Burdens to Themselves: Tenacity and resourcefulness are both excellent traits to behold, and you’ll find many people who will rely on you for your many competencies and capabilities. However, one cannot shoulder everything by themselves, and if you establish yourself as the end-all helper, who do you think will come to your aid when you need saving? Therefore, it’s best we understand that, sometimes, it doesn’t hurt to ask for help as well.
- Reduce Depression and Anxiety: The global pandemic has taken a toll on our emotional and mental well-being, and given that so much has been happening in just these past few months, it’s only natural to feel anxious or dejected. However, with the help of an effective support system, you will have trustworthy people you can open up to and listen to your thoughts. And having someone to help you sort out through your emotions and negative conceptions will reduce the risk of any further depression and anxiety.
Start by Connecting with Your Friends, Family, and Loved Ones
An excellent place to start establishing a support system is to look no further than your friends, family, and loved ones because they are often the closest and most understanding people you will ever find. You’ve probably already experienced many times before receiving support and advice from them, meaning that creating an actual support system would be a lot easier than you realize.
- Sometimes, They Understand You Best: These people have been with you the longest, and that time together also translates into understanding you best even when you yourself feel lost to the flow of life. Whether you’re in a predicament, unable to properly apologize, or facing an insurmountable life-changing decision, they can help recapture bits and pieces you may have overlooked.
- You Don’t Need to Look Far Beyond: One benefit to having friends, family, and loved ones as your support system is proximity and how you won’t need to look far to get crucial help. For the most part, these people are but a call or message away, and they’re sure to answer even if you’re on the verge of breaking down in tears.
Seeking Emotional Refuge and Support from Others
Likewise, it doesn’t hurt to look beyond just friends and family. In fact, seeking emotional refuge and support from experts in handling these situations or other individuals who find themselves in the same problem might even be more beneficial. And, unlike those closest to you, they can listen to your worries and offer advice from an unbiased point of view.
- People You Meet Through Hobbies, Games, and Sports: We all meet many people through our hobbies, games, sports, and preferred pastimes, and the same people we meet can also act as a support system. Yes, they might not be available to chat with 24/7, but they can share impartial advice and opinions.
- Professional and Formal Support Groups: Of course, you could also seek help from professional and formal support groups that can get you in touch with an expert, and while it may come at a fee, you can guarantee that you’ll be getting quality help. Plus, you’ll almost always find yourself with others suffering from the same, and these same people might capable of providing comfort that no one else can.
Connection Can Heal
Overall, while sticking to yourself and quiet days can heal the soul, it’s when we choose to connect with others where we experience the most healing. So, don’t try to bottle up all your emotions inside, and feel free to reach out your hand to others to help you stand.
