Let’s be clear…humans are interconnected and require loving support systems to thrive. No one makes it alone. It’s unfortunate that far too many people believe they have to, they need to tough it out alone because asking for help is weakness. Allow me to offer you a more productive, constructive, and positive perspective. It actually takes inner strength to ask for and accept help.
“You can’t achieve anything entirely by yourself. There’s a support system that is a basic requirement of human existence. To be happy and successful on earth, you just have to have people that you rely on.”
—Michael Schur
Support System Needed
Humans are social creatures and need other people, a support system. None of us are in this alone, though it may feel that way at times. And the extreme social isolation imposed upon us by the pandemic triggered more loneliness, more depression, more anxiety and more mental health issues in general.
The shutdowns exposed our interdependence and need for social contact and support. Even those of us who wanted to seek help were denied. Yet whenever we go against Human Nature, we suffer psychologically which impacts every other aspect of health, including the physical and spiritual. We need a healthy, loving support system to thrive.
Humans are social creatures and need other people, a support system.
Support for Your Mental Health
It’s imperative that you surround yourself with people who genuinely have your best interest at heart. Please note that your support system can include family, friends, religious leaders, and mental health providers. What matters more than relation is connection and authenticity. For example, family members can be imposing and only seek their desires for you while a coworker listens to you without judgement.
“There are support systems for any life challenge.”
–Tracey Thomas, PsyD, Circles Group Facilitator Liaison
Help is Available
One positive result of the pandemic is increased awareness of mental health issues and resources. Now there are many more options for help, including teletherapy and online support groups. Learn more about them on The Glen Alex Show with guest Tracey Thomas from Circles. The Glen Alex Show is available on YouTube, iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and wherever you get you podcasts.
You are not alone. Help is available for any life challenge you may face. Reach out to find the right support system for you, whether it be family, friend, support group. Keep in mind that your support system may shift depending on the challenge you face. For example, four friends were my support system during the severe depression I experienced a few years ago and a sister was my rock when my twin girls died. Someone is there for you, it’s just a matter of you asking for and accepting help.
Everyone needs a support system for mental health.