Better Together
Having people you can rely on – whether it’s for a helping hand or just a listening ear – can make all the difference for your mental and physical well-being. That’s why it’s essential to have a support system: a network of friends, family, or loved ones who can offer emotional and practical assistance during life’s highs and lows. Here, we explore the benefits of a support system, how to build one, and how it can affect your long-term health.
The Benefits of a Support System
A support system includes the people in your life who offer encouragement, listen without judgment, and help you navigate challenges – whether emotional, practical, or both. Research shows that relationships like these can have a positive impact on your mental health. Friends and other close relationships can boost your sense of purpose, increase feelings of happiness, and lower feelings of stress.
According to the Mayo Clinic, having close friends can also play a role in your physical well-being. Research shows that adults with strong social connections have a lower risk of depression, high blood pressure, and unhealthy weight levels, and some studies have found that adults with strong support systems are more likely to live longer than those who don’t.
How to Build and Maintain a Support Network
Building a strong support system takes time and commitment. Your support system can include family, friends, coworkers, mentors, and more. When looking to grow your social circle, it may be necessary to step outside of your comfort zone. Joining a new club, volunteering in your community, and signing up for workout or educational classes can help you meet new people and develop like-minded connections.
Once you’ve established a close circle of supporters, it’s important to nurture those relationships. Remember, support is a two-way street. Keep your circle up to date about your life, accept and extend invitations to social events, and offer your own advice and practical help when someone in your life needs it.
Support Makes a Difference
From everyday challenges to life-changing events, having people to lean on in times of stress can make tough times all the more
manageable. Whether it’s a trusted family member, friend, or coworker, having a reliable
support system helps you stay grounded, resilient, and mentally strong – no matter what comes your way.
Meet the Author
Ali Lemmons, BS, Summa Cum Laude
Ali Lemmons is a graduate of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Communication with a minor in computer science. While at UTC, Ali also earned the distinction of Summa Cum Laude, the Outstanding Senior Award for the communication department, and was inducted into the Kappa Tau Alpha honor society. Now, as editor/digital content specialist for CMC Media & Marketing Group, Ali leads the ideation, conceptualization, and development of numerous health, wellness, business, sports, and lifestyle articles published in print and online for HealthScope®, CityScope®, and Choose Chattanooga® magazines – premier publications serving S.E. Tennessee and North Georgia. She is also involved in content creation for Digital Smart Marketing customers and is the lead copywriter for the company’s social media sites.
