Social support improves health
With decades of research highlighting the health benefits of a support network, it is clear that the social support provided to individuals improves their health. Multiple studies show that social support promotes longevity, help in individuals with high support levels and improves cognitive resilience. And a lack of support can influence someone’s chances depression And cardiovascular disease.
The different types of support have been well described. Received support is a tangible help, like a journey to a medical appointment. Perceived support relates to those who know that someone could help when called. Individuals appreciate emotional support When they have an intimate partner’s ear or a close friend.
Furthermore, informational support help an individual to discover the means to solve problems when he has access to the tools, by helping them with decision -making. Obviously, these types of social support overlap – nursing or financial support are types of support received, and perceived support can be linked to many types of support.
Researchers have linked all types of support for positive health results. Several meta-analyzes and studies evaluating the role of social support and its relationship to health conclude that social support is, according to Borders in psychology,, A “significant predictor of health and longevity, whatever its conceptualization and measure”.
The support of intimate partners is often, but not always, useful
As we get older, we are more likely to lose our long -term partners and therefore our more traditional support. In addition, in the 21st century, Americans generally live alone. THE Census The reports that almost 50% of the United States is currently single.
What does research indicate on social support provided by partners in relation to knowledge? Is the support of a partner from the Order stallion, or can it support friends, colleagues, and even knowledge or remunerated aid also improve health?
Partner support can be solid, as planned. Spouses encourage Breast cancer and colorectal cancer screening. Care support a spouse can help medicine Membership, and as such, contributes to improving blood pressure in the elderly. But such intimate support can be darken by the characteristics of the relationship. The support may depend on relational satisfaction– A study has shown that support for a partner’s kidney patients was not useful in those who have bad relationships.
A complete study The support of intimate partners has concluded that there are many variables that play in the complexity of the support relationship. In addition, sometimes when individuals suffer from stressful Diagnostics such as cancer, spouses and other partners retire Because they are stressed themselves. The support of a partner may depend on how the recipient receives or interprets such support. Therefore, research informs us that intimate social support can help a partner, but not always.
Does the support of non-partner also improve health?
Health care models which emphasizes support can improve clinical results and improve health measures. In a study on mothers for the first time, English health professionals have supported evaluation (like “your baby is doing so well”) and informational support (on nursing practices, for example), which helped new mothers feel more confident and could help ensure good mental health in these moms.
Work support Can help reduce job stress and improve the mental health of workers, as indicated in a study of 44,000 European workers. In another study, supervisorTided to allow healthier cortisol levels, which could lower blood pressure and modify other health measures for the best. THE Classic study by Whitehall British workers have shown that a low work support was linked to more stress at work and possible cardiovascular disease that is the result of it. Is it not useful for supervisors to know that support can improve the health of workers when lack of support could cause a heart attack?!
Having supporting friends also improves your chances of maintaining good health. In a study On young people (aged 12 to 25), friends were able to encourage their peers with cancer, especially since they obtained training On the best way to do it.
Men can help peers decrease their blood pressure under stress, which can, in the long term, decrease cardiovascular disease. In an experience, when men who have been posed with a stressor – a difficult mathematical problem – instrumental support for the markets (defined as real assistance) of another man, their blood pressure was less responsive that those who have not obtained support.
Does the type of personality affect the acceptance of support?
Personality types can affect Reception of support, as some may need more support and coaching than others in order to carry out the effects on support health. Extroverts tend to have larger social circles and are more likely to ask for support. However, The introverts that find Too much exhausting socialization can appreciate small doses of interaction. They may need to have an ear to listen (perception of support) or need informational social support that helps solve problems.
When and who should ask for support to improve health?
Psychological and sociological research confirms that support for many varieties can be an increase in health. Longtime partners can serve as supporters. But if you are without a current spouse or partner, or if your partner is not adapted to the support role, you may want to look for:
- Friend support to keep your blood pressure under control
- Colleagues support to reduce work stress
- Support groups, such as those provided by the American Cancer Society, to help you manage a new disease
Despite the changes of the last one hundred years that have resulted in more Americans living alone, it is on several occasions that it is advantageous to connect and obtain the support of others.
