Human beings are social creatures, and relationships are an essential aspect of our lives. We all need someone to share our experiences, joys, and sorrows with, and that’s where social support comes in. Social support refers to the help and comfort that we receive from our social networks, including family, friends, colleagues, and even pets. Research has shown that social support plays a vital role in our physical and mental health, and in this article, we will explore some of the benefits of social support and maintaining relationships.
Improved mental health
One of the most significant benefits of social support is that it can have a positive impact on our mental health. Studies have shown that people with strong social networks are less likely to experience depression, anxiety, and stress. When we have people to talk to and share our problems with, it can help to alleviate some of the negative emotions we may be feeling. Additionally, social support can provide a sense of belonging and purpose, which can boost our overall well-being.
Reduced risk of physical illness
Social support can also have a positive impact on our physical health. People with strong social networks have been shown to have a reduced risk of developing chronic illnesses such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Additionally, social support can help to boost our immune system, which can make us less susceptible to infections and illnesses.
Increased resilience
Life is full of ups and downs, and having social support can help us to cope with the challenges we may face. When we have people we can rely on, it can help us to bounce back from difficult situations and build resilience. Additionally, social support can provide us with different perspectives and ideas, which can help us to find solutions to problems we may be struggling with.
Improved self-esteem
Maintaining relationships and receiving social support can also have a positive impact on our self-esteem. When we have people who care about us and support us, it can help us to feel valued and important. Additionally, social support can provide us with positive feedback and encouragement, which can help us to feel more confident and capable.
Increased happiness
Finally, social support can help to increase our overall happiness. Having people to share our experiences with and celebrate our achievements can bring a sense of joy and fulfillment to our lives. Additionally, social support can provide us with a sense of purpose and meaning, which can contribute to our overall happiness and well-being.
In conclusion, social support and maintaining relationships are essential for our physical and mental health. Whether it’s family, friends, or colleagues, having people we can rely on can make all the difference in our lives. So, if you haven’t already, make sure to reach out to the people in your life and let them know how much they mean to you. Not only will it make them feel good, but it will also benefit your health and happiness in the long run.
About The Author
Dr. Leo is a highly-qualified and dedicated primary care physician who graduated from Manila Central University College of Medicine in 2018. He passed the Physician Licensure Exam in 2019, and has since gained valuable experience practicing in various settings such as being a company physician, doctor-on-duty for outpatient clinics, and a telemedicine practitioner.
What sets Dr. Leo apart is his dual-certification as both a physician and a registered nurse, having passed the Philippine Nurse Licensure exam in 2012. He has a unique perspective on healthcare as he believes in taking a holistic approach addressing the root cause of an issue rather than just treating symptoms. He is dedicated to finding long-term solutions for current disorders and preventing new ones.
