Support System Basics
What is a support system?
Network of people, resources, and structures that provide help and encouragement
Name one example of personal support
Friend, family, mentor, trusted adult
Support systems can help lower what kind of feelings?
Stress
A trusted friend, a family member, mentor or trusted adult, counselor, community/peer group
FALSE
True or False: Everyone's support system looks the same
FALSE
Which type of support helps with jobs, school, or career growth?
Professional support
True or False: Support systems improve mental health
TRUE
You're struggling mentally but don't want to talk to family. What/who would be another option to talk to?
Counselor, mentor, peer group, hotline, online support
What does "Reciprocity" mean?
Giving AND receiving support
Name TWO things a support system can help with
Stress, Decisions, emotions, finances, motivation
What type of support includes community groups or clubs?
Social/Community support
What does "resilience" mean?
Ability to bounce back from challenges
You're starting a new job and feel lost. What support helps most?
Supervisor, coworker, mentor (think professional support)
Name one way to strengthen an existing support relationship
Check-ins, communication, appreciation, honesty
Why are support systems especially important during the young adult ages?
Life transitions, independence, identity development, new responsibilities, new experiences
Which type of support helps with information or advice?
Informational support
How does having support increase your success in goals?
Accountability, encouragement, guidance, motivation
You feel isolated after moving away from your friends. What support could help?
Community groups, clubs, social supports, family
Why is communication important in support systems?
People can't support needs they don't know about
What is one misconception people have about support systems?
"I should do everything alone", "only family counts", "asking for help makes me weak"
Why is it risky to rely on only ONE type of support?
One person can't meet every need, burnout, limited perspectives
What benefit of support systems is NOT obvious right away?
Confidence, self-worth, identity development, stability
Talk it out, reflect, ask questions, look for information
What is one boundary that keeps support systems healthy?
Limits, respect, balance, not oversharing, mutual effort