kelly@mytherapymylife.com
(469) 513-1112

Schedule an Appointment

Kelly Freeman, LPC

  • Home
  • About Me
  • Services
    • CBT Therapy
    • Counseling for Anxiety
    • Counseling for Trauma
    • Therapy for Depression
  • Getting Started
    • FAQs
    • Client Forms
    • Rates & Insurance
    • Good Faith Estimate
    • Appointment Request
    • Pay My Bill
  • Resources
    • In The News
    • Mental Health Links
    • Physical Health Links
  • Contact
  • Blog

Lean on Me: Why People with a Mental Health Crisis Need a Support Network

October 22, 2020 by Kelly Freeman Leave a Comment

Human beings have a need for social connection. It stems from our ancestors needing to stick together to stay alive. Back in the day, those individuals who strayed from the group had a harder time surviving the elements and not starving to death.

While it is far safer to be an individual these days, that doesn’t mean it is healthy for us to be isolated, for isolation undoubtedly threatens a person’s mental well-being.

It is for this very reason that people suffering from depression and other mental health issues need the love and encouragement from a support network

Social Connection: A Vital Part of Depression Recovery

When a person suffers from depression, they live with a constant pit of despair at their side. Every moment hurts and the truth about life remains elusive.

When we feel these dark feelings, there is a natural tendency to retreat and isolate ourselves. But this only makes the dark darker.

Recovery from depression is a complex process but you don’t need to go it alone. By surrounding yourself with friends and loved ones, you can continue to feel genuine connections, and each one of those connections is a light that can pierce through the darkness.

Research suggests there is a definite link between social relationships and many different aspects of a person’s mental health and wellness. It is for this reason that mental health professionals often discuss the importance of having a strong social network.

Get Yourself Social Support

Social support comes in many different forms. Sometimes you might need help with daily tasks if you are struggling with depression. Sometimes you may need an ear to listen and a shoulder to cry on, and sometimes you may need some sound advice.

Whatever you may be going through and whatever kind of help you need, here are some ways you can build a support network of people that love and care about you.

1. Create a List

Make a shortlist of friends and family members who have shown their love, kindness, and support in the past.

2. Make a Commitment

Commit to reaching out to someone on your list every week (if not more). You can do this through a phone call, text, email, or in person.

3. Be Honest

The people that love you can only help and support you if you are honest with them. When you reach out, share what is on your mind and heart. Talk openly about any struggles you are dealing with and be sure to be open to any fresh perspective or advice.

4. Get Out – When Possible

With COVID still affecting our lives, it’s not always easy to get out and be social in person but doing so is remarkably helpful and healing for our mental health. Phone calls and emails work in a pinch, but nothing beats spending time with loved ones in person.

It’s also important to mention that sometimes we need a bit more help than our loved ones can give. If, after forming your support network, you feel that you need additional help, it’s vital you reach out to a mental health specialist. He or she can give you tools and strategies that will help you recover from depression.

If you’d like to explore treatment options, please reach out to me. I’d be happy to discuss how I may be able to help.

 

SOURCES:

  • https://psychcentral.com/lib/social-support-is-critical-for-depression-recovery/
  • https://www.mhanational.org/stay-connected
  • https://www.verywellmind.com/social-support-for-psychological-health-4119970

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)

Related

Filed Under: General

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Kelly Freeman

Live, Love, Life Therapy

(469) 513-1112
kelly@mytherapymylife.com

2500 Wilcrest Drive, Suite 300,
Houston, TX 77573

Message Me

Live, Love, Life Therapy

(469) 513-1112

kelly@mytherapymylife.com

Proud Member of TherapyDen

Connect with Me

Helping You Discover and Cultivate The Real You

 

  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • Pinterest

Get Started

Click on the button below to schedule an appointment with Kelly Freeman.

Click Here to Schedule an Appointment

Substance Abuse Therapists and Counselors
View My Profile
Depression Therapists and Counselors
View My Profile

Privacy Policy

A bright site by Brighter Vision