Social support is essential for every individual’s physical and emotional well-being. It provides a sense of belonging, reduces stress, and helps cope with life’s challenges. Friends and family are the two primary sources of social support. However, the role of friends and family in providing social support differs significantly.
Friendships are often based on shared interests, leisure activities, and personalities. Friends provide a particular type of social support that is mainly emotional. Friends offer a listening ear, empathy, and assistance in problem-solving. They provide a sense of humor that can lighten up the mood and help cope with adversity. Friends serve as companions that one can rely on to share joys, successes, and sorrows.
In contrast, family members provide a different type of social support. Family support is more obligatory based on the sense of duty and responsibility. Family provides unconditional love and support, and as such, their support is more essential during major crises. Family members provide emotional, instrumental, and financial support. They offer practical support, such as caring for children or elderly parents, and physical help in completing tasks.
Despite the fact that friendship social support and family social support are two different types of support, both friends and family play an essential role in an individual’s ability to cope with life’s challenges. Interestingly, some friends may eventually become family members due to the long-standing connection and loyalty.
The impact of social support on an individual’s ability to cope with life’s challenges is significant. Social support reduces the susceptibility to the negative effects of stress, including depression, anxiety, and decreased self-esteem. Social support provides the necessary emotional cushion that one requires during difficult times.
In conclusion, the role of social support from friends and family cannot be overemphasized. While both provide different types of social support, both are equally important in an individual’s ability to cope with life’s challenges. It is essential to cultivate and maintain both types of social support to promote overall well-being. Additionally, it is important to note that social support is a two-way street. Being there for friends and family members when they need it is just as important as receiving the support when we need it.
