Find supportive
relationships

Did you know that supportive relationships and social activities are just as important to our health as quitting smoking, eating healthy, and getting exercise?

We thrive when we have meaningful connections. They lower our blood pressure, boost our immune system, release the brain chemical oxytocin, and reduce stress hormones. This response helps us stay calmer when stressful things happen.

3 ways to get support from relationships

  • Embrace your circle
  • Check your relationship
  • Help others to help yourself

Make a list of the people in your life who make you feel good when they’re around, and bring out the best in you. They could be friends, family, a teacher or coach, someone at work or school, a neighbor.


Make a call, send a text, get together for lunch, or take a walk. Keeping those connections active is key!

If you’re in a relationship, ask yourself these questions:
  • Do I feel supported?
  • Do I feel safe?
  • Can I be myself with them?
  • Can I tell them how I really feel?
  • Do I hold as much power as my partner in the relationship?
  • Do we listen to each others’ concerns?
  • Do I trust them?
  • Do I feel good about myself when I’m with them?

Answering “no” to any of these may be a sign that this is not a supportive relationship. Think about making a change.

Sometimes the best way to feel connected and reduce your stress is to help other people.


Check in on someone you know who’s been going through a tough time.


Volunteer for a nonprofit or in a community service project. Become a Big Brother or Big Sister to a child who needs a caring person in their life.


You’ll get the satisfaction of helping, and the benefit of social connection.

Resources

Relationship Spectrum
Healing from Traumatic Relationships
When It’s More Than a Bad Day