Social network

Do you ever wonder why many people generally feel better after talking through problems with a trusted friend or family member? Aside from the benefits of having more than one mind working to solve a problem, social support has been shown to buffer the adverse effects of stress. In addition to making you feel better, social support positively influences mortality and morbidity.

Belonging to a social network increases the feeling of self worth with a sense of belonging. The increased confidence it provides allows for better creative thinking and boosts motivation. In terms of behavior, social support encourages informed choices and positive change including healthy practices such as exercise and healthy eating.

With all this good news regarding social support, you might think that hugs can make everything better. However, there may be some negative correlation between depression and social support as well as anxiety and social support. An individual’s perception of social support and how it matches a given stressor play a part in that support’s effectiveness. This might help to explain why social support does not always prevent or resolve episodes of depression and anxiety.

For this Discussion, review this week’s Learning Resources. Then research literature in the Walden Library on social support and its effect on the health condition. Consider how different populations may be at risk for reduced social support.

With these thoughts in mind:

Post by Day 3 a brief explanation of the effects of social support on the health condition. Then describe two populations that are at risk for reduced social support and explain why. Finally, explain two ways you might bridge the gap between the need for and utilization of social support for the populations you selected. Be specific.

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Social Support and its Impact on Health

Social support plays a crucial role in promoting overall health and well-being. It acts as a buffer against stress, improves mental health, and even influences physical health outcomes. Research indicates that social support can help reduce blood pressure, improve immune function, and accelerate recovery from illness (Cohen & Wills, 1985). Essentially, strong social connections provide a sense of belonging, security, and purpose, leading to a more resilient and healthy individual.

However, access to social support is not evenly distributed. Two populations at risk for reduced social support include:

  1. Older Adults: This population often faces social isolation due to factors like retirement, loss of loved ones, and reduced mobility. These factors can limit their opportunities for social interaction, leading to loneliness and decreased access to support networks.

  2. Immigrants and Refugees: Adapting to a new culture and language can be challenging, leading to feelings of isolation and a lack of social connection. Cultural differences and language barriers can further impede the formation of meaningful relationships, making accessing social support more difficult.

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Bridging the Gap:

Here are two strategies to bridge the gap between the need for and utilization of social support for the populations mentioned above:

For Older Adults:

  1. Intergenerational Programs: Creating programs that connect older adults with younger generations through shared activities, mentorship, and volunteer opportunities can provide meaningful social interaction and reduce loneliness.

  2. Technology-Enabled Support: Providing access to technology and training on using platforms like video conferencing and social media can facilitate connections with family and friends, enabling social interaction regardless of geographical distance or mobility limitations.

For Immigrants and Refugees:

  1. Community-Based Organizations: Connecting immigrants and refugees with culturally sensitive community organizations can provide a welcoming space for building relationships, accessing resources, and receiving support in their native language.

  2. Language and Cultural Integration Programs: Offering language classes and cultural orientation programs can help immigrants and refugees adapt to their new environment, navigate social systems, and build connections with others.

Conclusion:

Addressing the gap in social support for these at-risk populations is crucial for improving their health and well-being. By implementing targeted interventions and promoting inclusive communities, we can ensure that everyone has access to the vital social support they need to thrive.

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