SOCIAL SUPPORT

The people you keep around you, have a direct impact on your health.

As much as we wish it weren’t the case, it is a hundred and ten percent true. Your Social Support System has an effect in more ways than you could be realizing.

What does Social Support even mean?

When we say “Social Support” we are talking about the people you turn to when you need an extra hand and a little more encouragement. And, on the other end, the people who turn to you when they need a little lifting.

A really good support system is unmatched, and a bad support system completely snowballs over time.

Research has shown a link between social relationships and many avenues of health and wellness. A poor social support system can alter brain function, increasing the risk of alcohol use, depression and loneliness.

A Good Social Support System…

Social support shows in many ways, whether it is a shoulder to cry on, delivering a meal when you are sick or giving advice when necessary. These are the things that bring us back down when our emotions are high and when we are dealing with stress.

All of these aspects of support provide health benefits. All those years of parents telling their kids about “peer pressure,” they really only mentioned the negative side. There is good pressure from people that are living a healthier life than you currently are.

Maybe your best buddy is a runner who invites you to go with them, or a really healthy eater that is picky about where you go to lunch. These things, that seem small, can really influence you.

While it is a big picture to digest, your social support system has a direct impact on your day-to-day life. That is why it is so so important to be proactive about the people you surround yourself with, and the people you lean on when times are hard.

Surround yourself with people who lift you up, help make you better and hold you accountable. Your mind, body and spirit will thank you!