In previous articles, we discussed the importance of a support network and the need to combat loneliness for greater well-being. To fight loneliness, it is essential to build a social network that allows for fulfilling relationships and conversations while addressing various needs—social, emotional, physical, and others that may arise.
Although we are social creatures, it is true that building and maintaining a support network over time can be challenging. In this article, we will reflect on and break down the different parts of the process of creating and sustaining a support system for mental health.
First and foremost, what do we mean by support?
Why are support networks important? Support networks are a crucial protective factor when it comes to life’s difficulties and combating loneliness. Studies show that having a strong and cohesive support network enables us to face life’s challenges more independently, which positively impacts our self-esteem as well.
It's clear that the benefits are numerous, but the question remains: how do we create a strong support network?
Building a support network for mental health can be challenging, especially if there are social difficulties or obstacles in maintaining connections due to life changes, such as moving to a new location. With this in mind, it’s important to recognize that there are several aspects to consider in order to overcome these challenges:
- Take a Broad View of Our Support Network: There isn’t a single way to receive support, nor is there a one-size-fits-all definition of what constitutes a "support network." Even if we don’t have one person with whom we share everything, there may be others with whom we can share frustrations and ideas.
- Seek Out People Who Share Your Interests: If we struggle to meet new people or feel a sense of closeness, we should try looking for groups that align with our interests. Connecting with others who share similar passions or hobbies can make it easier to build meaningful relationships.
- Seek Out Trustworthy People: Confiding in individuals who provide comfort and trust helps prevent negative interactions. It’s important to share our thoughts and feelings with those who make us feel safe.
- Develop Social Skills: Social interactions can be intimidating, but there are ways to ease into them. We can start by asking the other person questions or suggesting activities to do together, giving our interaction a clear purpose. We can also use tools that facilitate conversation, like decks of questions designed to spark dialogue.
- The Support Network Doesn’t Have to Form Organically: We can turn to mental health communities, such as day groups, that focus on addressing psychological issues and promoting well-being. These groups are usually led by professionals in Psychology or Psychiatry.
- Proactivity and Seeking Support: By taking the initiative to create social opportunities and reach out to others—whether as a source of support or to ask for help—we make our support network a regular part of our life, which can lead to greater satisfaction.
Reflecting on this last point, it’s important to emphasize that relationships are complex, and finding someone who provides the type of support we need can be challenging. So, how can we use our support network in a sustainable and satisfying way? The key is to work on relationships so they are built on open, vulnerable, and honest communication, along with mutual trust, responsiveness, and reciprocity among all involved.
It’s important to remember that this process is co-constructed by everyone involved, resulting in support networks that can vary in the number of members, the type of support they offer, the contexts in which they operate, and other characteristics. What matters most is that through this network, we can ask for help, ultimately achieving a greater sense of well-being and health.
If creating a support network is particularly challenging, it’s worth considering seeking help from psychology professionals—such as those at Ivory Therapy—to explore the root of the difficulty and develop tools and skills that not only help build this community but also enhance our autonomy.
Finally, finding support for mental health is a lifelong process. It may start with exploring the points mentioned above and will evolve as we and the world around us change. What’s essential is that we have a safe space within our community.
