In this chapter, we will focus on strengthening and expanding our social network. People with psychiatric problems often have a small social network and may feel alone and unloved. Sometimes we have lost contact with our family and friends, or we do not make new contacts because we are afraid to open up to others or to be rejected. We may feel unable to make new friendships. Some of us have family and friends who support us, but need to spend time repairing relationships. As our world expands and we take on more roles, we also meet new relationships and our social network may expand.
Our social network plays an important role in all the domains we discussed earlier. Supportive relationships can contribute positively to the recovery process in these domains. Strong relationships emerge during our journey to recovery as we expand our horizons and overcome our shortcomings.
The mental health system tries to encourage independence, which is why we are not encouraged to form relationships, especially with people who also have mental health problems. The focus is on dealing with problems independently.
How do you get started?
There are many ways to work on your social network. Here are a few tips:
It is important to remember that it takes time and effort to build new relationships. Be patient with yourself and others. And remember to appreciate and cherish yourself. You are worth being surrounded by love and support.
It's important to surround yourself with a supportive network of people who understand what you're going through. They can offer encouragement, advice, and sometimes just a listening ear when you need it. And don't forget about professionals like doctors, therapists, and support groups.
The term 'social network' refers to the interactions we have with people who give us positive energy and show care and concern for our wellbeing. Social support is the knowledge that we have people in our lives who care about us and are concerned about our well-being. Social networks can have a positive impact on our lives.
At the beginning of our recovery journey, it's common to rely on carers, case managers, therapists or family members for social support and help. This can make us feel vulnerable and in need of help, and we may feel that we don't have much to offer others because we are struggling with mental health issues. However, as we continue on our journey, we may find new friends and expand our social network. We may realise that real social support is a two-way street and it's natural to want to give something back to others.
In fact, sometimes we can offer more to others because we have personal experience of mental health problems. This can make us more compassionate and sensitive to the struggles of others.
Realize the significance of social connections in your journey towards recovery and understand that building a supportive network takes time and effort.
Mental health problems can have a significant impact not only on our mental health, but also on our social network and relationships. For example, we may lose contact with important people in our lives, such as family members and partners. We may feel isolated and lonely, even though these people are still around us. Sometimes we may feel unable to connect with others, or we may distance ourselves to protect ourselves from disappointment or setbacks. Loneliness can be painful and affect our wellbeing and quality of life.
Social research shows that clients of mental health services often need a lot of help from carers and family members at first. As their recovery progresses, they can develop equal relationships and benefit from them in their recovery process. This can mean, for example, gaining more confidence to engage in social contacts and relationships, which can reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. Equal relationships can also contribute to a sense of connectedness and support, which can aid recovery from mental health problems.
It is therefore important to recognise that mental health problems are not just an individual issue, but can also affect our relationships and social network. By working on equitable relationships and social contacts, we can improve our wellbeing and quality of life and support our recovery process. These relationships can benefit our recovery in important ways:
Discover that having a strong social network can help you cope with stress, manage emotions, and make positive changes in your life.
Social relationships are crucial to our emotional and mental wellbeing, providing emotional support, companionship and a sense of belonging. Unfortunately, developing and maintaining social relationships can be difficult for many people, particularly those with mental health problems. People with mental health problems are more likely to experience loneliness and social isolation, which can exacerbate their mental health symptoms and delay their recovery.
In this section we will explore the unique challenges that people with mental health problems face in developing and maintaining healthy social relationships. Stigma and discrimination are significant barriers that can prevent people with mental health problems from feeling accepted and supported in their social networks. In addition, self-esteem and communication difficulties can also prevent individuals from forming and maintaining meaningful relationships.
However, there are strategies and techniques that can help individuals overcome these challenges and develop healthy social relationships. Developing coping strategies to deal with stigma and discrimination can help individuals maintain their confidence and self-esteem. Practicing communication skills, such as active listening and assertiveness, can help individuals to express their needs and feelings effectively, which is essential for building healthy relationships.
By addressing these challenges, individuals can take proactive steps to foster healthy and fulfilling social relationships, which can contribute greatly to their overall wellbeing and recovery. It is important to recognise that social relationships are essential not only to our mental health, but also to our overall quality of life.
The following exercise can help you strengthen your social network:
Social contacts are important for our well-being
Social contact is an essential part of human existence. It helps us feel connected to others, gain support and develop a sense of identity and meaning.
For people with mental health problems, it can be difficult to maintain social contact
There are several reasons why people with mental health problems may have difficulty maintaining social contacts. Some people withdraw from others because they fear rejection or are ashamed of their disorder. Others have difficulty maintaining contacts because they have difficulty understanding others or responding to their emotions.
This point list discusses some of the most common challenges to social contact among people with mental health problems
It is common for people with mental health problems to want to withdraw from social contact because of concerns about stigma and the feeling of not belonging. Sometimes we may still go to social places but feel that we want to be alone rather than socialising.
We often rely on carers and family members for help and support, but may feel that we have nothing to give in return. This can be particularly hard on carers who struggle to continue to support us. While it is important to seek help from caregivers and use their support when needed, it is also important to have other social relationships in order to be successful in recovery. It can feel unnatural to only receive help and not be able to give anything in return.
If we do not feel positive about ourselves, it can be easy to feel that we do not matter to those around us.
Lack of financial resources can make us feel that we have no opportunities to socialise.
Sometimes it can be difficult to open up to others because of past negative experiences or fear of disappointing or hurting others if we get close to them.
By understanding these challenges, we can find ways to address them. This can be done by developing self-confidence, building social skills and seeking out support groups or other resources.
Here are some tips for improving social connections
It is important to remember that you are not alone
There are many people who struggle with social contact. There are resources available to help you, and you can connect with other people who are experiencing the same challenges.
Building and maintaining strong social connections is crucial for our mental and emotional wellbeing. It's important to remember that it takes time and effort to build a supportive network, and it's okay to start small.
If you are interested in improving your social relationships, there are a number of ways to connect with others and deepen those connections. One way is to join a group or club that relates to your interests or hobbies. This can be a great way to meet like-minded people who share your passions and can provide a sense of belonging and community.
Another way to build social connections is to volunteer or get involved in community events. Not only does this allow you to give back to others, but it also provides an opportunity to meet new people and make meaningful connections.
If you already have social contacts but would like to deepen these relationships, consider setting aside some time to spend with these people, whether it be through joint activities or just talking. Communication is key in any relationship, so make sure you express your appreciation for the people in your life and actively listen to their thoughts and feelings.
It is important to remember that building and improving social relationships takes time and effort. It may not always be easy, but the benefits of strong social connections are many and can greatly improve your overall wellbeing. So keep trying, and don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone to meet new people and expand your social circle.
There are three ways to get social contacts
It is important to think about the kinds of relationships you want to have. The following is a list of areas to think about when finding contact with other people:
If you are part of a community, such as a support group, therapeutic sessions or a specific group of people with shared experiences, it can be valuable to connect with fellow clients. They often understand what you are going through and can be a source of understanding and support.
It can be helpful to have an advisor or mentor in your life. This can be someone who has expertise in an area you are interested in or who can guide you in achieving your goals. They can offer valuable advice and guidance.
Friendships are essential to our well-being. It is important to invest time and effort in maintaining friendships. Friends offer companionship, joy, support and a listening ear during both good and difficult times.
Family is often the foundation of our support systems. Maintaining strong ties with family members can provide a sense of belonging and a sense of home. Family members can be an important source of love, support and understanding.
If you are a parent, building a strong relationship with your children can be crucial. Providing love, care, guidance and support to your children can ensure a healthy parent-child relationship.
For those who long for romantic relationships, finding an intimate partner is key. This relationship can be based on love, mutual understanding, respect and sharing of life experiences.
In addition to close friendships and intimate relationships, there are also acquaintances in our lives. These are people we regularly encounter in our daily lives, such as co-workers, neighbors or people from the same community. Although the ties are not as deep as those with friends or family members, acquaintances can still be valuable contacts.
Neighbors are people who live in the same neighborhood or community as you. Building a good relationship with your neighbors can provide a sense of community, mutual help and safety.
For some people, spirituality is an important aspect of their lives. Connecting with people who share similar spiritual beliefs or participating in spiritual communities that offer support in exploring your spiritual journey can be valuable.
Pets can offer us unconditional love, companionship and comfort. They can play an important role in our lives and contribute to our well-being. In addition to pets, there are other ways to connect, such as hobby groups, clubs or social events that share your interests and passions.
For some people, belief in a higher power or the universe can be a source of support and comfort. This can range from seeking meaning in life to believing in the sending of positive energy or prayers.
It is important to remember that building relationships takes time and effort. Invest in the relationships that are important to you and maintain regular contact with those around you. This will contribute to a sense of connection, support and well-being in your life.
Good communication is the key to successful relationships. If you want to be someone's friend, it is important to be open to friendships. It is also essential to be as positive as possible and work on yourself to be happy. When you are in a good state of mind yourself, it becomes easier to connect and receive support from others. You may also need to take action to improve relationships. Here are some tips to improve your communication skills:
Trust is a fundamental aspect of any relationship. Take the time to build trust by being reliable, keeping your promises and being consistent in your behavior. Also be willing to give others the benefit of the doubt and put your trust in them.
In addition to verbal communication, body language plays an important role in conveying messages. Pay attention to your posture, facial expressions and gestures to support the intention and emotions behind your words. Also be attentive to the body language of others and adjust your communication accordingly.
Effective communication includes not only talking, but also listening. Take the time to really listen to what others have to say. Be patient, don't interrupt and show genuine interest. Active listening promotes understanding and mutual respect in relationships.
Sharing thoughts, feelings and experiences helps build a deeper connection with others. Be open and honest in your communication, and don't be afraid to make yourself vulnerable. By sharing, you give others a chance to get to know you better and build trust.
Showing empathy is a valuable trait in relationships. Try to understand others' situation from their perspective and show understanding and compassion. This helps build a supportive and loving environment.
In relationships, there may be times when disagreements, conflict or criticism occur. It is important to develop a resilient attitude and a thicker skin. Be open to feedback and try not to take it personally. Learn to deal constructively with differences and setbacks.
Sharing common interests and hobbies is a great way to strengthen relationships. Look for shared activities or topics you are passionate about and share them with others. This can lay a foundation for in-depth conversations and create a sense of connection.
Identify your strengths and leverage them in your communication. This will help you build self-confidence and attract others. However, also be willing to learn and grow, and be open to improving your weaker points.
By working on these communication tips, you can improve the quality of your relationships and have a positive impact on those around you. Remember that communication is a process that takes practice and patience, but with commitment you can build effective connections.
Once we've built a social network of supportive relationships, it's important to nurture it and maintain those connections. The people in our network are important to us, and it's important to let them know that we value their friendship and support. Here are some tips on how to do this:
Let your friends and family know how much you appreciate them. Take the time to express your gratitude for the things they do, even if it's a small gesture like checking in on you or making time to catch up.
Being present and attentive when you are with your friends and loved ones is essential to building and maintaining strong relationships. When you spend time together, make a conscious effort to be fully present in the moment and actively listen to what they have to say.
Regular communication is key to maintaining strong relationships. Whether it's a phone call, text message, email or social media post, make an effort to stay in touch with the people in your network on a regular basis.
Just as your friends and loved ones offer support to you, it's important that you offer support to them when they need it. Whether it's a shoulder to cry on, a listening ear or a helping hand, being there for your network is an essential part of building and maintaining strong relationships.
Schedule regular social activities with your friends and loved ones, such as dinner parties, game nights, or outings. These activities can help you stay connected and provide opportunities to create new memories and experiences together.
Remember that building and maintaining strong relationships takes time and effort. By showing appreciation, being present, staying in touch, offering support and planning social activities, you can help nurture your social network and create lasting connections with the people in your life.
There are six principles that we can use to maintain or deepen our relationships. We can also use the next point when we get into difficult situations in a relationship.
To profit from social support, you can take the following steps:
Think about the people in your life who you trust and feel comfortable talking to. These can include friends, family members, coworkers, or even a therapist.
Once you've identified your support network, make an effort to communicate openly with them. Share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences with them, and be willing to listen to their feedback and advice.
Building trust with your support network is essential for maintaining healthy relationships. Be consistent, reliable, and honest in your interactions with them.
Don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Your support network is there to support you, so use them as a resource when facing challenges or difficulties.
In addition to asking for help, make sure to reciprocate when someone in your support network needs assistance. This can include emotional support, practical help, or simply being there to listen.
Keep in regular contact with your support network, even when things are going well.
To improve your social connections, you can try the following tips:
To get a clear picture of your current social support network, it can be helpful to take some time to reflect on the different types of support you receive from people, places and things in your life. Start by making a list of the names of people who have supported you in the past or present. This could include family members, friends, colleagues, mentors and others.
Next, think about the people who are newer to your network and who you would like to get to know better. It may be helpful to think about people with whom you feel comfortable and secure, and those with whom you would like to spend more time, such as having dinner or coffee together.
Think about the different types of support you receive. Emotional support can come from those who listen to you, offer kind words of encouragement and make you feel better during difficult times. Practical support can come from people who help you with everyday tasks, such as running errands or cooking meals. In addition, there may be specific places or things that provide support, such as a park where you like to exercise or a spiritual book that helps you stay centred.
By taking the time to map out your current social support network, you can gain a deeper understanding of the type and level of support available to you. This can help you identify areas where you may need to seek additional support, as well as recognise and appreciate the support you already have in your life. Remember that building and maintaining social connections takes effort and time, but the benefits to your wellbeing are well worth it.
Make a note of the social support and people you find:
Ive got good contact with my neighbours.
The accompaniment at work.
People from the bank
My gamingfriends.
My colleagues at work.
My buddies.
Sometimes ive got some deeper contact with people i know
The sweatlodges have been quiet for a while now.
If your finished, take the time to see all the names youve written down, and think about the support youve gotten or shared with these persons. Take a look at your network maybe you discover certain patterns?
Im open and honest with most people, so yes i feel close.
Yes.
Self confidence.
Yes.
Yes.
Yes.
Yes.
Ive found support on the most areas of my life.
Most of them have been in contact with mental healthcare.
They are stronger then their problems.
It's important to remember that it's okay to ask for help when you need it and to also be there for others when they need support from you.
Remember, improving your social connections takes time and effort, but the rewards can be significant for your mental health and overall well-being. Don't be discouraged if progress doesn't happen overnight - just keep putting in the work and maintaining the relationships you already have. Good luck!