One of the biggest predictors of recovery or improved mental health is an individual’s access to and use of their support system. Support systems can consist of family, friends, mentors, or peer relationships. It can include teachers, classmates, a faith community, or co-workers and can look different for different people. Some people may have a large support system and others may have a smaller or more intimate support system. Some individuals have access to healthy family relationships, and others may have a chosen family.
No matter what someone’s support system looks like the important thing is that they have people they feel comfortable reaching out to, being themselves around, and having people that are reliable and will extend support when needed. Additionally, having an established support network can prevent feelings of loneliness or isolation. It has been shown to increase an individual’s likelihood of having both mental and physical health conditions such as high blood pressure, chronic illnesses, anxiety, and depression.
If your support system doesn’t look the way you want it to there are steps to take to build one. Reach out to old friends, classmates or co-workers. Join groups on social media that are interesting to you. Find a support group near you that deals with things you are struggling with or have experienced, or volunteer. Check out an app like sober grid that has events listed for individuals who are living a sober lifestyle. There are resources all around you if you look. Don’t give up, you deserve to experience fulfilling relationships in your life.