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For millions of people, staying fit and healthy, both physically and mentally, is something they have no problems with. There is a lot of information and advice available online and in a range of publications that make it much easier. For some people, however, additional support is needed in order for them to stay focused and reach their goals. If you think you fit into this category, you might be wondering where you can go for such vital support. Here are a few ways you can do it.
Social support is a term used for the support you get from friends, family, and other people. Having a range of different people you can turn to in times of need gives you a broader focus and positive self-image. It provides you with a better quality of life and gives you a buffer against life events.
Social support can be provided in several different ways. When people do things to make someone feel cared for this is known as emotional support. Instrumental support is when people provide physical support, such as money and housekeeping. The other type of support is when people provide helpful information, and this is known as informational support.
Support groups have been helpful for thousands of people, but it’s vital you find the right kind of support group. A support group is a collection of people that come together because they are going through or have gone through similar experiences. These experiences could be an addiction, bereavement, caregiving, chronic medical conditions or cancer. Meetings are held, and this is seen as an opportunity for people to share their own experiences and feelings, first hand information about treatments and diseases, and coping strategies.
Support groups take many different forms and can include face-to-face meetings, online communities, and teleconferences. The group is often led by a person who shares or has shared the groups common experience. It could be led by a professional such as a nurse, social worker or psychologist. There may also be a range of educational opportunities such as guest speakers.
If you’re in need of support, then your GP is the best place to start. They’ll be able to talk through what’s happening and how you’re feeling and provide options for treatment and support. Ongoing care might be suggested, support services might need to be involved, or you might be referred to another health professional or treatment centre such as 310 Recovery. Health professionals are able to help people of all ages, and there are also more specialist services that are specifically for supporting children and young people.
Whenever you find yourself in need of extra support, it’s reassuring to know there are avenues you can explore and find the help you need. Having to struggle on your own with any kind of health issue can be difficult. Not everyone has close friends and family they can turn to, but there are many other people who can provide support when you’re struggling.
This is a collaborative post.
Welcome to Birds and Lilies! I'm Lou: mother, blogger and freelance writer. This is my lifestyle blog, where I talk about motherhood, infertility and IVF, beauty, my love for food and wine, as well as my thoughts about stuff, and our real-life and travel adventures.
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