Having a strong and supportive network is incredibly important. This is even more true for those who live with mental health issues. Often, finding people who understand where you are coming from, and accept and love you unconditionally can be challenging. It can be exhausting and discouraging to constantly explain yourself, and your feelings. However, there are people who will appreciate and respect you, no matter what.
The Government of Canada reports that people with strong social networks are more likely to:
- Report being happy
- Have high psychological well being
- Report high life satisfaction
- Report their mental health as “very good” or “excellent”
Let’s discuss some signs that someone is good for your mental health:
Allow you to express yourself
Talking to others, and communicating your feelings is key to then processing those feelings. What is even more important is the ability to talk freely without fear of judgement. For many people with mental health issues, they often hide their true emotions or thoughts as they are afraid of what others will think or say. Therefore, finding a network of people who you can speak to without constraints or barriers will have a positive impact on your mental health.
In the same regard, talking about some things can be too difficult at times. Finding people who understand, in some way, what you are feeling or experiencing without having to explain yourself makes it even easier to exist in their company. Often, people want a comforting presence, but don’t always want to delve into their thoughts. Those you can simply “be” with are an asset to you and your mental health.
Are there for you
It is easy to support and encourage people when they are at their best. However, when individuals are going through a difficult or challenging time, it can become too much for some. Therefore, it is key to find those who are willing to lend a listening ear, shoulder to cry on, or comforting words when you need it the most.
Of course, relationships need to be reciprocal, so it’s important not to take advantage of these people in your life. Relationships aren’t always 50/50, and at times, one will require more, and the other will need to be present for them as well.
Respect your boundaries
Depending on the mental health issue you are experiencing, you will likely have certain boundaries that protect your mental health. People who truly love and care for you will respect these boundaries without question. So, whether that means avoiding certain situations, or needing to leave a social event earlier than the rest, someone who is good for your mental health won’t judge you, make you feel silly or inferior, and will support you when needed. Boundaries are incredibly important to maintain your mental state, and they should be honored by those who want to see you thrive and succeed.
Make you feel seen
Mental health issues can be isolating. For many, the feelings of loneliness and that they are the only person in the world feeling this way can be overwhelming. Individuals who are good for your mental health will make you feel seen, while also acknowledging your experiences. Along with this, they will celebrate your efforts, big or small, and make you feel valued and less alone. Even if someone doesn’t have first-hand experience with their own mental health issues, they can see you for who you are, and will do so without question.
When you find a person, or people, who make you feel valued and appreciated, in the darkness and the light, be sure to keep them close and let them know what they mean to you. If you don’t have a support system, there are resources available to help you navigate challenging times.
