The Benefits of Social Support For Health

Numerous studies have consistently shown that receiving some form of help, care or assistance to overcome a difficulty or challenge is highly beneficial for health  and wellbeing.  This may be in the form of emotional support, such as someone listening to your concerns and showing understanding; it may be tangible support such as an elderly person receiving a ride to the GP or assisting a parent with baby sitting; or it could be receiving advice and guidance on issues concerning finance, housing or disability.  Contrary to popular opinion, social support need not be from family, friends or other known networks, but can also include healthcare workers or therapists, community organisations, even government programs. 

In 1985, Cohen and Wills conducted an extensive review of research on the possible effects of social support, and they found that emotional support significantly assisted individuals to cope with stress and maintain better physical and mental health status; whilst Holt-Lansted et al’s meta-analysis in 2010 found that receiving care, empathy and concern resulted in a 50% greater likelihood of survival compared to persons with weaker social support.  Moreover, Holt-Lansted et al suggested that the process of reducing stress vis receiving support reduced the chances of suffering from serious physical disease.  Another study conducted by Berkman et al (2000) discovered that persons receiving assistance or resources had a significant reduced risk of premature mortality. 

Thus, research suggests that having people in your life that you can rely on and confide in, or receiving some other form of care, help or assistance, is an important determinate of health and wellbeing.  

How you build social support networks will very much depend on the type of support you need.  If, for example, you are struggling with general mild stress then speaking to a family member or friend that listens to you, shows empathy, and suggests ways to address the stress, may be sufficient.  If you struggle with a chronic health difficulty then visiting a nurse or GP may help to resolve your problem.  If, on the other hand, you are struggling financially, you could visit a community organisation such as Citizens Advice or apply for benefits to pay housing costs.  Thus, how you build social support networks will very much depend on your needs, nevertheless, here are a few general tips to keep in mind:  

• Most people are generally helpful if you ask for support, so build the confidence to reach out to others and ask for psychological, physical, financial or any other type of support you may need.  This can be via phone, email or visiting the person or organisation that can assist you in resolving your problem.  
• Invest in your relationships.  Make time to regularly speak to friends, family, neighbours or community members.  
• Always try to be kind and considerate, and develop good listening and empathy skills.
• Understand that most relationships are a two way street, requiring give and take.  
• Genuinely support others; this will also improve your own health and wellbeing. 

Everyone struggles from time to time and getting support to resolve a problem or challenge can make a big difference to your mental, emotional, physical and social wellbeing.  Therefore ask for support if it is needed, being always thankful, whilst at the same time investing in supporting others too.  

I hope you found this article useful.  Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need any assistance.  

With best wishes,

Sadaf