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The importance of a support network

The Importance Of a Support Network

When you need to relax or get away from things, your support network can be integral to your achieving this.

Whether they can help you out while you get away i.e. looking after some of your responsibilities like minding children or animals, cooking, cleaning or completing other chores you may have, or helping your get relax i.e. a coffee or lunch break with a friend, a weekend away or even a longer holiday, the people in your support network can do wonders for your ability to relax.

The Importance of a Support Network

Social support is thought to be incredibly beneficial to our overall well being. Having people you know you can trust can influence healthy behaviours (i.e. exercise), increase our ability to cope with stress and, increase our motivation.

Knowing that you have this support can be as beneficial as using the support. Supportive relationships, where appropriate, should be reciprocal.

Create Your Support Network

Think of how you might want to relax or detach from your regular routine.

Think of up to 3 people you could turn to when times get tough, or maybe you’ve already experienced their support. If you can only think of one, that’s ok.

Next, we are going to set two goals on strengthening your support network. You can always add more goals at a later date through.

Support Network Goal no.1

What would you like to do with this person in your support network that will help you relax or get away from it all?

Support Network Goal no.2

What might you ask of someone in your support network that might help you relax or detach that you know you will be able to repay in kind?

Tips for managing your support network

Like other resources in the app, the relationships you have with your support network will work best if they are reciprocal.

You might not be able to repay them in the exact same way, but it helps to offer something similar to them.

A Final Thought

Support networks are instrumental to your well-being, especially during difficult times. Knowing who you can turn to for the help you require in that moment can positively influence your well-being.

However, it’s important to build these relationships during the good times, when we have the energy and capacity to do so. Respect and reciprocation are key to healthy support networks. You should be willing to give back what you take when you can.

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