Strategies for Managing Support Networks

Managing Support Networks

Social support is the physical and emotional comfort given to us by our family, friends, co-workers, professional help and others.  Support comes in many different forms; financial support, help with daily tasks, advice, listening, empathy, a hug. Which ever form of support you received, having support is shown to have many positive health benefits such as higher levels of well-being, better coping skills and reduced likelihood of depression and anxiety.

 

After a diagnosis, the amount and type of support needed, may be very different than prior to the diagnosis. Looking to others for support and needing support may not be an easy transition. An important piece in feeling supported is our perception of whether or not we feel supported. It is possible to be surrounded by others offering help and still perceive ourselves as not having enough support.

 

When developing a support network start with people who are already in your life. Consider making a list of positive supports you already have and then build additional support in the areas you feel you require more support; for example, support groups offer both knowledge and empathy for the challenges you may face.

 

What type of support are you looking for:

 

  1. Emotional Support: help by telling us they care and think kindly of us. A shoulder to cry on.

  2. Instrumental Support: help taking care of your physical needs and offer a helping hand when you need it.

  3. Informational Support: help by providing guidance, advice, information, and mentoring.

 

Below are some resources to support you in developing your support network.​

Why is Social Support Important

  1. How Social Support Contributes to Psychological Health​ – Verywellmind.com

  2. Social Support – Heretohelp.bc.ca

  3. Manage Stress –  American Psychological Association

  4. Stress Management – Mayo Clinic

Consider your available supports and what type of support they are best able to provide:

  1. Building A Support System – Soulselfhelp.on.ca

  2. The How’s and Why’s of Cultivating Social Support – Very Well Mind.com

  3. Social Support Worksheet – www.therapistaid.com

Take the time to check in with yourself about what supports you need:

  1. 3 Questions to Ask Yourself When You Feel Unsupported in Relationships​ – tinybuddah.com

  2. 5 Steps to Getting the Support You Need and Deserve – Goodtherapy.org

Ask for the support you need:

Supports won’t automatically know what you need – you have to tell them​​. When you identify your needs, consider the way you support yourself. Are you meeting those needs in yourself?

 

  1. “How Can I Best Support You?” & 5 other Questions to Ask When Your Friend is Suffering -thebodyisnotanapology.com​

  2. Learning to Accept Help – Caregiving.com

Accept the help you are offered:

Friends and family want to support you. Giving and receiving support is important for relationships.

 

  1. Learning to Accept Help – Caregiving.com

  2. Learning to Accept Help – jf2.com

  3. How to Accept Help From Others and Being Vulnerable – conqueringfearspiritually.com

Follow Your Interests:

You are more likely to connect with those you have something in common with.

Find a Support Group Online:

  1. Why Online Groups Can be Good For Your Health – ​Ask4UFE

  2. Melanoma Wellness Canada – HealthUnlocked

  3. Melanoma Connect Facebook Group – Save Your Skin

Social support is about give and take:

A successful relationship is a two-way street that requires your active participation,: Stay in touch​; Be a good listener; Be conscious of the type and amount of support you are asking for; Be appreciative of the support you have; Express gratitude towards your supports; Give back when others need your support.

 

  1. Why Helping others is good for your Health – Best Health Magazine​

  2. How to Create Social Support In Your Life – Very Well Mind.com

Talk To Someone About Your Thoughts:
  1. Therapists in Canada – Psychology Today​
  2. Canadian Cancer Society
  3. Save Your Skin Foundation

Listed above are a few sources of information and support you might find useful. These groups are not connected to Save Your Skin Foundation. We are providing the links as useful sources of information but do not monitor content for accuracy and quality.

 

NOTE: The information on the Save Your Skin website is not intended to replace the medical advice of a doctor or healthcare provider. While we make every effort to ensure that the information on our site is as current as possible, please note that information and statistics are subject to change as new research and studies are published. 

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Making awareness and education available is crucial. Since 2006, the Foundation has worked to raise awareness of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers focusing on education, prevention and the need for improved patient care.

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