Social Wellness: The Value of Support Systems
What do you call something all people (and some pets) need, find much fulfillment in, but are sometimes hesitant to ask for? Connection. Before the famous Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs which is individual-centric, there was the indigenous Blackfoot model that inspired Maslow, which was community-centric. In fact, it was a widely held belief by many indigenous nations that the effort of cultivating and maintaining a sense of safety and meeting basic needs was the responsibility of the community. To the extent where it was believed that being isolated or without any type of kinship was their idea of poverty. Somehow along the way, society has drifted from this collective approach, and we’ve found ourselves more isolated, stressed, and on a convoluted quest for happiness.
Having a strong support system has many benefits, acting as a metaphorical ‘safety net’ to a person’s overall needs. Research has shown that this safety net may reduce loneliness, low blood pressure, boost the immune system, and improve cognition. Even more, having strong social relationships has been consistently linked to a longer, healthier life. You may be reading this and nod your head confidently because you already have the nourishment of a support system, but there may be others who can’t quite relate yet, or are unsure how to regain a support system after a disappointment or betrayal. Allow me to offer this hope – You are deserving of high-quality support system and have the power to cultivate it. It should not be conditional. Now consider this:
- Learn and master yourself
- Have standards and boundaries
- Check in on your friends, family, and family-like friends
- Discover new places and be open to new experiences that align with you
- Consider reaching out to a mental health professional if you feel overwhelmed or unsupported
- Celebrate the people who make you feel loved and valued
References
American Psychological Association (2022). Manage stress: Strengthen your support network. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/topics/stress/manage-social-support
Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health (2019). An active social life may help you live longer. Retrieved from https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/hsph-in-the-news/active-social-life-longevity/
Ravilochan, T. (2021). The Blackfoot wisdom that inspired Maslow’s Hierarchy. Retrieved from https://www.resilience.org/stories/2021-06-18/the-blackfoot-wisdom-that-inspired-maslows-hierarchy/
