Question

Discuss three specific ways social support can protect against the health effects of stress and mental health concerns.

Answer 1

Answer:- SOCIAL SUPPORT: Tap this tool to beat stress
Having close friends and family has far-reaching benifits for your health. Here's how to build and maintain these essential relationships.

A strong social support network can be critical to help you through the stress of tough times, whether you've had a bad day at work or a year filled with loss or chronic illness. And the lack of social support can lead to isolation and loneliness. Since supportive family, friends and co-workers are such an important part of your life, it's never too soon to cultivate these important relationships.

Risks of isolation and benifit of social support

Studies have demonstrated that social isolation and loneliness are associated with a greater risk of poor mental health and poor cardiovascular health, as well as other health problems. Other studies have shown the benefit of a network of social support, including the following:

Improving the ability to cope with stressful situations
Alleviating the effects of emotional distress
Promoting lifelong good mental health
Enhancing self-esteem
Lowering cardiovascular risks, such as lowering blood pressure
Promoting healthy lifestyle behaviors
Encouraging adherence to a treatment plan

Cultivating your social support network

If you want to improve your mental health and your ability to combat stress, surround yourself with at least a few good friends and confidants. Here are some ideas for building your social network:

Volunteer. Pick a cause that's important to you and get involved. You're sure to meet others who share similar interests and values.
Join a gym or fitness group.Incorporating physical fitness into your day is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. You can make friends while you exercise. Look at gyms in your area or check a local community center.

Give and take : The foundation of social networks

A successful relationship is a two-way street that requires your active participation. Here are some suggestions for nurturing your relationships:

Stay in touch. Answering phone calls, returning emails and reciprocating invitations let people know you care.
Dont't complete. Be happy instead of jealous when your friends succeed.
Be a good listener. Listen when your friends are speaking. Find out what's important to them.
Don't overdo it. Be careful not to overwhelm friends and family with phone calls and emails. Save those high-demand times for when you really need them.
Appreciate your friends and family. Take time to say thank you and express how important they are to you.
Give back. Be available for family and friends when they need support.

The bottom line

Remember that a goal of building your social support network is to reduce your stress level, not add to it. Watch for situations that seem to drain your energy. For example, avoid spending too much time with someone who is constantly negative and critical. Similarly, steer clear of people involved in unhealthy behaviors, such as alcohol or substance abuse.

Taking the time to build a social support network is a wise investment not only in your mental well-being but also in your physical health and longevity. Start making more friends or improving the relationships you already have. Whether you're the one getting the support or the one doling out the encouragement, you'll reap rewards.