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Need for Support
Evidence
No one survives alone; humans often rely on each other especially in times of adversity. This need may compel us to seek help, comfort, and collaboration when we face challenges or stress. Offering and receiving support strengthens bonds and confidence, allowing individuals and groups to recover from difficulties more effectively and to know that help will be there when it’s needed.
Details about the rewritten claim
Social support from others is a well-documented protective factor for health. Numerous studies suggest that people who perceive strong emotional and practical support suffer less psychological distress and even have better physical health outcomes. For example, having supportive relationships is associated with lower rates of depression and anxiety and can improve recovery from illness (empirical review in Frontiers in Psychology, 2024). Social support helps by buffering the impact of stress: individuals who feel cared for and understood tend to cope with hardships more effectively than those who lack support. On the other hand, loneliness or a lack of social and emotional support has been linked to a higher risk of numerous health problems, including heart disease, cognitive decline, and premature mortality (CDC report, 2024). In summary, access to caring support networks bolsters mental well-being, resilience, and even longevity, underscoring why the need for support is so fundamental.
Supporting sources
- CDC 2024 report: loneliness and isolation elevate health risks (https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/73/wr/mm7324a1.htm)
- 2024 Frontiers in Psychology review: social support buffers stress and illness (https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1330720/full)
Strategies
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Call a parent
If you have a parent you trust, consider calling them. It's awkward at first but I like to ask "will you still love me if x..." and then I share the anxiety inducing thought I'm struggling with. Even though you both know what their answer is, let them say it. Let yourself hear it. I promise they will love saying it, give them a chance to.
Floor starfish
Lay flat, arms and legs wide, and let the floor hold you for one minute.
Pillow nest
Create a quick cushion “nest” behind your back or under knees.
Name support options
List three people or places you could ask for support when ready.
Name one help to ask
Write a concrete, doable request you could ask someone this week.
Add a strategy
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