Topic > Loneliness and Social Support - 523

Although many areas of development are integrative, the link between social support and emotional health is widely recognized. The term “social support” often appears in discussions about relationships. Social support means “having friends and other people, including family, to turn to in times of need or crisis for a broader focus and positive self-image” (Towey, n.d., Web). Having this social support promotes better emotional health which can help a person cope with stressful life events. An example of this integrative development is the increase in loneliness during early adulthood. This is understandable, as young people move between school and work and are constantly building new relationships (Berk, 2010). Often these emotional feelings of loneliness stem from not being satisfied with current relationships or longing for relationships. One dictionary definition characterizes loneliness as causing a depressing feeling of being alone (Lonelies, Dictionary.com). When intense feelings of loneliness persist, they are often linked to many self-destructive attitudes and behaviors (Berk, 2010). Lonely people tend to evaluate themselves and others negatively and are increasingly uncomfortable in social situations. This leads to the person not being able to increase their chances of making friends. Having a support group showed an active connection between social support and areas of well-being. Those in close personal relationships cope better with various stressors, including bereavement, job loss, rape, and illness (Towey, n.d., Web). Church groups, social groups, and community centers are all examples of social support networks. They can provide a person with emotional support, that is, actions that make them feel cared for. Instrumental support involves physical supportive actions, such as purchasing groceries. When information is provided to help someone it is called information support (Towey, n.d.). To be a support group, you need to establish a positive relationship and sense of connection with your support network. Since emotional health can be related to social support, this means that young people facing loneliness can be positively influenced by exposure to a social context. support group. A study of 700 Canadians aged 13 to 80 showed that changes in emotional distress due to loneliness peaked from early adolescence to late teens and early twenties. By middle adulthood and into late adulthood, feelings of loneliness diminish. If the person can find social support that can support them emotionally, their well-being will improve.