my support system essay

Recovery is a personal journey with the goals of hope, empowerment and autonomy. And for many people with mental health challenges, recovery is often possible.

Many factors contribute to recovery, including having a good support system of people that you like, respect and trust. They can be family members, friends, teachers, faith leaders, neighbors or peers — what’s important is that you have people you feel comfortable talking to about what you’re experiencing and support you may need.

Research has shown that having a social support system can have a positive impact on your overall mental health, especially for women, older adults, patients, workers and students. On a scale of 1 to 10 where 10 was “a great deal of stress” and one is “little or no stress,” a 2015 survey found that the average stress level for people with emotional support in place was 5 out of 10 compared to 6.3 out of 10 for people without emotional support.

Having a few people you trust and can turn to can help you manage everyday challenges, make difficult decisions, or even during a crisis situation.

It can also combat social isolation and loneliness , both of which can put you at higher risk for physical and mental health issues including high blood pressure, a weakened immune system, anxiety, depression and more.

If you don’t have this right now, that’s okay. Use these tips from the American Psychological Association to help build and strengthen your support network:

• Reach out to family and friends. Simply saying hello or offering to help with a task can spark conversation.
• Use technology. Connect with people far away via email, text messaging or video calls.
• Connect with people who share your interests. Join a club, volunteer at a local organization or take a class to help meet people who share your likes and interests.
• Look for peer support groups. If you are facing a personal challenge, consider joining a peer support group to help take care of your mental health and connect with people who are facing something similar.
• Ask for help. Reach out to your local library, place of worship, or community center to learn more about local events you may want to attend or groups you may want to join.

Remember that everyone’s support system will look different. They can be anywhere from one to 10 people and include diverse people from different areas of your life. And they take time to build.

It’s also important to take care of your own mental health and well-being in the process. Use self-care strategies and tips from the Mental Health First Aid curriculum to take care of yourself while also building a network around you.

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Manage stress: Strengthen your support network

Emotional support is an important protective factor for dealing with life’s difficulties, while loneliness has been associated with a wide variety of health problems including high blood pressure, diminished immunity, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline.

• Parenting, Families, Relationships
• Chronic Illness
• Mental Health

Stress is a normal and unavoidable part of life—but too much stress can affect your emotional and physical wellbeing. According to APA’s 2022 Stress in America survey , an alarming proportion of adults reported that stress has an impact on their day-to-day functioning, with more than a quarter (27%) saying that most days they are so stressed they can’t function. Nearly half (46%) of those under 35 and more than half (56%) of Black adults under 35 agreed with this statement. On a scale of 1 to 10 where 10 is “a great deal of stress” and one is “little or no stress,” American adults rated their stress level at 5.0, a number which has held steady since 2020. Still, this level is slightly elevated from prepandemic levels.

Emotional support is an important protective factor for dealing with life’s difficulties. A 2022 study found that social support bolsters resilience in stressful situations .

High levels of loneliness are associated with physical health symptoms, living alone, small social networks, and low-quality social relationships.

The good news is that there are ways to seek out such support and to nurture your supportive relationships.

The benefits of social support

Experts say that almost all of us benefit from social and emotional support. And though it may seem counterintuitive, having strong social support can actually make you more able to cope with problems on your own, by improving your self-esteem and sense of autonomy. Emotionally supportive friends and family who see you as capable, for example, and can help you focus on next steps for addressing your concerns.

You don’t need a huge network of friends and family to benefit from social support, however. Some people find camaraderie among just a handful of people, be they coworkers, neighbors, or friends from their church or religious institution, for instance. 

Yet social skills don’t always come naturally. Some people have trouble making social connections. Many others lose established connections due to life changes such as retirement, relocation, or the death of a loved one. In any case, it’s possible to forge new connections to reap the benefits of a healthy support network.

Grow your support network

Cast a wide net. When it comes to your social supports, one size doesn’t fit all. You may not have someone you can confide in about everything—and that’s okay. Maybe you have a colleague you can talk to about problems at work and a neighbor who lends an ear when you have difficulties with your kids. Look to different relationships for different kinds of support. But remember to look to people you can trust and count on, to avoid disappointing, negative interactions that can make you feel worse.

Be proactive. Often people expect others to reach out to them, and then feel rejected when people don’t go out of their way to do so. To get the most out of your social relationships, you have to make an effort. Make time for friends and family. Reach out to lend a hand or just say hello. If you’re there for others, they’ll be more likely to be there for you. And in fact, when it comes to longevity, research suggests that providing social support to friends and family may be even more important than receiving it. 4

Take advantage of technology. It’s nice to sit down with a friend face-to-face, but it isn’t always possible. Luckily, technology makes it easier than ever before to stay connected with loved ones far away. Write an email, send a text message, or make a date for a video chat. Don’t rely too heavily on digital connections, however. Some research suggests that face-to-face interactions are most beneficial.

Follow your interests. Do you like to hike, sing, make jewelry, play tennis, get involved in local politics? You’re more likely to connect with people who like the things you like. Join a club, sign up for a class, or take on a volunteer position that will allow you to meet others who share your interests. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t make friends overnight. Try to enjoy the experience as you get to know others over time.

Seek out peer support. If you’re dealing with a specific stressful situation—such as caring for a family member or dealing with a chronic illness—you may not find the support you need from your current network. Consider joining a support group to meet others who are dealing with similar challenges.

Improve your social skills. If you feel awkward in social situations and just don’t know what to say, try asking simple questions about the other person to get the ball rolling. If you’re shy, it can be less intimidating to get to know others over shared activities—such as a bike ride or a knitting class—rather than just hanging out and talking. If you feel particularly anxious in social situations, consider talking to a therapist with experience in social anxiety and social skills training.

Ask for help. If you lack a strong support network and aren’t sure where to start, there are resources you can turn to. Places of worship, senior and community centers, local libraries, refugee and immigrant groups, neighborhood health clinics, and local branches of national organizations such as Catholic Charities or the YMCA/YWCA may be able to help you identify services, support groups, and other programs in your community.

Seek professional help

If you’re feeling stressed and don’t have anyone to rely on, psychologists can help. As experts in human behavior, psychologists can help you develop strategies to manage stress and improve your social skills. Use the APA’s Psychologist Locator Service to find a psychologist in your area. You can also visit MentalHealth.gov , a website of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that offers resources in English and Spanish.

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Developing Your Support System

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Preserving personal longevity and happiness, relationships and your career.

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Social support system refers to a network of people – friends, family, and peers – that we can turn to for emotional and practical support. At school, fellow students, supportive staff, and faculty may provide assistance, and as we move into our professional careers, our colleagues may also be sources of support. Browse through the sections below to learn more about building and sustaining your support system.

On this page:

Benefits of a social support system.

• Research has shown that there are tremendous benefits in having a network of supportive relationships: those with robust social support networks have better health, longer lives, and report higher well-being. Friends and loved ones can make you more resilient in times of stress, setback, or loss and they can also make the good times even better.
• In addition to buffering stress, some friends can even help you identify when you are stressed or distressed — in some cases they may notice it before you do. (See  Identifying Your Breathe Supports  for more information.)
• There are many practical benefits to having supportive relationships, such as knowing people who can provide you with information, advice, guidance, and also tangible support, such as assistance in times of uncertainty. This feature of social support can be comforting and enhance your feelings of security.
• Supportive relationships can also bolster you emotionally when you’re feeling down or overwhelmed. Friends and loved ones will listen to your fears, hopes, and dreams, and make you feel seen and understood. They can help you think through alternatives and solve problems, and they can distract from your worries when that is what’s really needed. In doing all this they provide encouragement and lower your stress and feelings of loneliness.

Sustaining Your Current Relationships

Successful relationships require give-and-take. A good rule of thumb is to treat your friends as you want to be treated. In other words, be the friend you want to have. Many factors contribute to healthy, happy relationships.  

Show your appreciation.   Tell your friends and family how important they are to you and thank them for all they give you.

Stay in touch through phone calls, texts, and emails; reciprocate invitations.  

Be available when you’re needed.  True friends come through when times are tough. Be a good listener and allow your friends to confide freely and without being judged.  

Accept their help.  Some people find it hard to accept support, preferring to be the one always offering it instead. Some may fear becoming dependent or want to maintain their self-image as the “strong” and “together” one. But friends and family often  want  to feel they have done something  for you . Let them! Accepting help  can help you.  It also keeps the relationship balanced and lets your friends and loved ones know that they have something to offer that you value.

Support successes.  When you genuinely care about someone you will be excited when they succeed. If you find yourself feeling a little jealous too, you can acknowledge that to yourself, but don’t let it poison your friendship.

Keep the lines of communication open.  Open, honest communication is the lifeblood of healthy, happy relationships. If a friend does or says something that hurts your feelings, try to deal with it directly. Start by assuming that it is a misunderstanding or that the misstep was unintentional, but ask them about it. (Don’t stuff bruised feelings.) Your friend will likely appreciate the opportunity to remedy the situation. Whatever the case, accept apologies graciously (as you would hope others would accept yours).

Respect needs and limits.  Each person has their own setting for how much social interaction they need and want. Know your own and respect that of others, even it differs from yours.

Know when a relationship isn’t working for you. If you find that you are drained whenever you see a particular friend, or that he or she is inconsiderate of your time or feelings, or is unreliable, highly critical of you, or generally negative, they may not be the friend for you. Similarly, if they engage in unhealthy behaviors, such as alcohol or substance abuse, particularly if you have had trouble with such issues, they also may not be a good choice for your social support network.

Remember, those in your support system should help you reduce stress, not increase it. They should support your goals and efforts to achieve them, not belittle or undermine or ignore them.

Some Ideas for Building Your Social Support System

Volunteer . Identify a cause that is important to you and get involved; commit some of your time to a community organization or a local place of faith. Volunteering can give you the gratification of taking action to further your values and will bring you into contact with others who share your interests and ideals.

Take up a sport or join a gym. This is good for your physical and psychological health and it may also provide the opportunity to build new friendships.

Start a book club  and invite some people to join who you don’t already know well. Discussing interesting ideas and sharing thoughts and observations is a wonderful way to make new friends.

Meet your neighbors and co-workers.  Make an effort to get to know some of the acquaintances you see on a regular basis.

Join professional organizations.  Taking this step is good not only for your future career but it will also extend your social network to encompass others in your field. Sometimes friends in the same profession can understand the stresses you face better than anyone.

Use online resources.  Social networking sites can help you stay connected with friends and family. There are also many sites that can provide specialized support if you are going through stressful times or changing circumstances, such as becoming a new parent, facing a life-threatening illness in a loved one, or some other challenge. Make sure to stick with reputable sites and use common sense about making arrangements to meet people in person that you have only known online.

-Message in a fortune cookie

Why It Is Important to Cultivate Your Social Support System Now

We turn to our social supports in times of need, and so they have to be in place  before  we need them. Now is the time to nurture the relationships you already have and to start making more friends. Don’t wait! You will enjoy the benefits now and in the future.

Starting a Support Group

A social support network is different from a  support group  in which people facing common issues share their concerns on a regular basis (and which may be peer or professionally led or free-form), though both can be very important in times of stress. Because we think student peer support can be especially helpful during graduate school, we hope you (if you are a student) will consider joining (or starting) a student support group in your school. (We have provided information on how to do this in  Tips on Starting a Student Support or Discussion Group  and the presentation  Why Create a Support Group?  [ Transcript of Why Create a Support Group ]).

Cobb, S. (1976). Social support as a moderator of stress.  Psychosomatic Medicine, 35 , 375-389.

Cohen, S., & Wills, T. A. (1985). Stress, social support, and the buffering hypothesis.  Psychological Bulletin, 98 , 310-357.

Duck, S., Starch, D., Starch, A., & Silver, R. C. (Eds.)(1990).  Personal relationships and social support.  Los Angeles, CA: Sage.

Mayo Clinic (2010).  Social support: Tap this tool to combat stress.  Retrieved July 29, 2010 from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/social-support/SR00033.

Uchino, B. N. (2004).  Social support and physical health: Understanding the consequences of relationships . New Haven, CT: Yale University Press.

Vaux, A. (1988).  Social support: Theory, research, and intervention . New York: Praeger.

(Prepared by Lisa D. Butler, PhD)

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Helping Students Understand Their Support System  

Exploring who you can count on and who supports you is invaluable. Students benefit from knowing  who  is in their support system,  when  to access them, and  how  to access them. It is so powerful for a child to know that when they are upset or in trouble, there is a support system they know how to access on their own.

Who Can I Count On?

Hands-on activities and visuals help students make something that's abstract more concrete. Using visuals, students can explore their support system in more detail.

When discussing, go beyond a list of reliable people. Have students sort people by where they see them (e.g., community, home, school), their relationship with them, and the kind of help they can provide.

Cup of Comfort

This student booklet is a series of 8 hot cocoa cups. Each hot cocoa cup prompts the student to think of someone they can count on for help in different locations. For example, who can they rely on at home, school, or community? You can expand this for different ages by discussing specific scenarios or why that person is part of their support system.

Download the free  Cocoa Comfort Activity from my store.

Safety Net Activity

Explain that support systems are like safety nets. When trying something new, we might fail. It is great to have people to "break our fall" or "catch us." You can talk about tightrope walkers or construction crews on tall buildings.

Safety nets are something they have so they stay safe. There are people in our lives that we can rely on when we try new things.

Support Circles

Have students think about who they can rely on more deeply by considering the closeness of their relationship or the kinds of problems they would go to them for. Concentric circles are a simple and quick way to have students explore their support system.

For example, you can have students rate how big the problem is by coloring in the circle. Minor problems may be the center circle, and it would continue to expand as the problem gets bigger. They could then add people they would go to for small, medium, and big problems.

Try having students add themselves to the center and then add people to the circle. The closer their relationship with that person, the closer that person would be to them on the diagram.

When Do I Need Support?

It's great for students to understand who is in their support system. It is even better that they know when to access those people.

Support systems are essential; you should know who you can count on. But it isn't as valuable as it should be if you don't know when or how to access them.

Size of the Problem Activities

Kid Fix Problems vs Adult Fix Problems

Most students I saw for counseling were usually struggling with some problem they didn't know how to solve on their own. Over time, this would quickly blow up into more significant issues. They either over-rely on adults or try to fix all the problems on their own.

One of the first things we did was to list the problems they were having. Then, we rated them on a simple scale.

• No Problem  - Something to let go of.
• Easy Fix  - problems with super easy solutions.
• Kid Fi x - problems that adults and others expect kids to fix themselves.
• Kid Fix with Adult Help  - problems kids are in charge of, but adults can help solve them more smoothly or quickly.
• Adult Help  - problems kids should not fix independently but rather ask an adult to fix.
• Emergency  - problems that need to be solved immediately by an adult. You can link this to their support system by having a student identify a scenario and who to rely on in each situation.

It is also important to talk about the consequences of over-accessing your support system and the benefits of being independent when possible. Stories like The Boy Who Cried Wolf are good parables for younger students.

Your support systems may see you as helpless or tire of doing things for you if you rely on them for problems you could solve yourself.

When deciding when to access help, students can consider someone in their support system with specific expertise. Who do they know that would be good at solving this problem or be able to help them best? Their best friend might be good when arguing with someone but not the best when they want to find resources for a research paper.

How Do I Ask for Help?

Hopefully, at this point, your students know  who  is in their support system and  when  they should access them. Often, students still need to learn  how  to access their support system.

Asking for help is hard and can feel awkward. Take out a barrier by giving them simple language.

Asking for Help: What to Say

During counseling or in class lessons, try to practice asking for help. Students respond well to sentence stems and role plays.

Practice with students in 2 parts: stating the problem  simply  and then asking for  specific  help. Simple and specific are the criteria.

"Do you have time after dinner to help me with my homework? I'm having a hard time with a few math problems in this new unit?"

"This kid kept staring at me during lunch and bumped into me on the way out. It freaked me out. Can you walk with me to class?"

Accessing Help from Adults

Talking with students about accessing help from adults at school or in the community is also helpful. As a school psychologist, I had specific passes for certain students.

We differentiated when it was an emergency and when it was something that could wait until the next free opportunity. In the community, they should know how to access a police officer or a responsible adult.

Counselor Passes

Subscribe and get access to the resource library. There you will find editable counselor passes, mindfulness scripts, and dozens of helpful resources.

Can Someone Count on Me?

I like to round out activities on support systems by asking students to reflect. Are they part of someone else's support system? They are sometimes the ones that need help; they can also be someone who helps.

Helping Hands

For this activity , students can trace their own hands, or you can print off outlines of a hand. Students write down ways they can specifically help others. Are there things they are experts in? Problems they have solved on their own that they could help someone else solve? This also makes for a great bulletin board when students are done.

Understanding your support system is an essential skill that lets students be independent decision-makers for themselves regardless of their age. 

Helpful Resources

Compliments SEL Winter Activity

Winter social emotional learning activity to help elementary students practice giving compliments. This resource includes a student activity, guiding slides, and display materials.

Where Oliver Fits Read Aloud Activities

Where Oliver Fits is a great way to talk about accepting others, how exclusion makes people feel, and practicing accepting yourself for who you are. The resources provide comprehension questions, activities, a story summary sheet, and bulletin board materials.

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Resilience and Recovery: The Importance of Support Systems in Mental Health

Mental health issues affect people from all walks of life. Having a strong support system can make a big difference in an individual’s ability to cope with and recover from mental health challenges. Family, friends, co-workers, and mental health professionals can all play a vital role in providing emotional support, helping monitor warning signs, giving practical assistance, and facilitating access to needed treatment.

It’s important to acknowledge that not everyone has the privilege of a strong, readily available support system. In such cases, digital mental health platforms can serve as a valuable supplement by providing information, self-help tools, and even professional consultations online. For those isolated from physical resources or facing stigmatisation, digital mental health platforms can offer a degree of anonymity and convenience that isn’t always possible with traditional forms of support. F

Reaching out for support

Seeking help and connecting with others can be difficult when someone is struggling with their mental health. Feelings of shame or isolation can cause people to hide their symptoms. Studies found that on average people wait 11 years from the onset of symptoms before seeking treatment for mental health issues .

But supports like counselling, medication, and community programmes can vastly improve outcomes. One’s inner circle may need to initiate conversations about their concerns and encourage professional help. With compassion and patience, loved ones can break through stigma and guide individuals to appropriate resources.

The benefits of community

In addition to family and friends, support groups can provide understanding and a sense of community. People with anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder found peer support groups beneficial for reducing isolation, learning coping strategies, and feeling emotionally validated. Support groups may be led by professionals or peers. They are often organised around a shared mental health diagnosis or experience. Groups focused on suicide bereavement, OCD, PTSD, eating disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and many other conditions are available in most communities and online. Knowing you are not alone in your struggles can be incredibly comforting.

Knowing you’re not alone can be empowering, acting as a catalyst for positive change and self-improvement. Support groups, both in-person and online, offer the chance to exchange experiences, strategies, and resources, which can be invaluable in navigating the complexities of mental health conditions. Online forums and apps are now expanding the reach of such communities, breaking down geographical and logistical barriers that may have previously limited access.

Importantly, support groups can also fill a critical gap in healthcare systems, especially in regions where mental health services are sparse or expensive. However, it’s crucial to remember that while support groups offer many benefits, they should ideally be used in conjunction with professional medical advice and treatment for a comprehensive approach to mental health care.

Promoting wellness in the workplace

The workplace is another environment that can strongly impact mental health, for better or worse. A 2021 survey by Mind found that more than 60% of UK employees have experienced poor mental health at work. Contributing factors include heavy workloads, job insecurity, bullying, lack of autonomy, and inadequate support following traumatic incidents on the job.

Some progressive companies now offer employee assistance programs (EAP) that provide confidential counselling and other mental health supports. Coworkers can also help by checking in on colleagues who seem to be struggling and demonstrating understanding. Promoting an open, accepting culture around mental health ultimately benefits employee wellbeing and productivity .

Flexible working arrangements can also be instrumental in reducing work-related stress, offering employees the autonomy they need to balance work with other life responsibilities.

Regular check-ins among coworkers can create a supportive network within the workplace, reinforcing the idea that it’s okay to talk about mental health. This all-encompassing approach fosters an atmosphere where employees feel valued, supported, and more engaged in their work.

Supporting loved ones in recovery

Recovery from mental illness can be a long, nonlinear process. Even once treatment begins, individuals often face setbacks and recurrences of symptoms. Ongoing encouragement from family and friends is key during this journey. Loved ones should educate themselves about the illness and potential triggers.

Setting small, achievable goals helps maintain morale and motivation. It also helps to identify and appreciate progress, even minor accomplishments. Patience and compassion are vital, as is giving people space when they need it. Maintaining hope during difficult patches can make all the difference. With time and continued support, many people with mental illnesses lead productive, fulfilling lives.

There is always hope

Mental health problems are extremely common, yet often misunderstood and stigmatised. While the challenges can be severe, individuals should know they do not have to face them alone. From professionals to peer communities to personal networks, various supports exist. Reaching out takes courage but is an essential first step.

There will also be ups and downs on the road to recovery. By learning coping strategies, celebrating small victories, and never giving up hope, people can overcome mental health obstacles. With time, compassionate support, and access to effective treatment, a mentally healthy, meaningful life is possible.

Christine Farrell is a mental health advocate.

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Why is it Important to Have a Support System?

It does not matter what you have been through in your past, or what you believe your future looks like. Life has an interesting way of throwing us curveballs and it’s our job to manage the situation as best as we can. 

One of the tools that can help us navigate life’s murky waters is a strong support system, one which we utilize when we need it the most. 

Why is it important to have a support system? A strong social support system of friends and family can help us accomplish our goals or deal with a crisis. Cultivating a support system takes time as we build up friendships and relationships with people over the course of a lifetime. When you do not take the time to foster relationships, you are in danger of poor social support system has been linked to depression and loneliness, which can lead to suicide, alcohol use, cardiovascular disease, and altered brain function.

A strong social support system takes on many different forms.

 It can mean emotionally supporting someone, such as giving advice at the right time, or taking care of them when they are ill. Showing concern and empathy are also common traits. This requires social integration, or the actual participation in your social circles with emotions, intimacy, and a sense of belonging. 

Participation in social groups helps to build a strong support system and has a formative influence on our behavior, such as whether we partake in healthy behaviors or not.

Our friends and family can help motivate us to quit smoking or other bad habits, as an example. But also strong support systems help us deal with stress in our lives. Being surrounded by people who are supportive and care about us can help us take care of ourselves and even reduce the consequences of trauma-induced disorders, such as PTSD.

If you or someone you know lack a social support system, take active steps to reach out before a crisis hits. Strong social support plays a role in our overall health. 

If you feel someone is in immediate danger due to a crisis, call 9-1-1 immediately. Contact OneEighty in Wayne County or Holmes County for additional assistance, even if you just want to talk. 

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What is a Support System and How it is Integral to Success as a Nursing Student? Essay

• To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
• As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
• As a template for you assignment

A support system is a network of people or items that provide an individual with practical and psychological support to accomplish any given task. As a graduate nursing student, my career is filled with many opportunities, challenges, and rewards. This program is rigorous and involving and as such, I must be adequately prepared to meet all those challenges and utilize opportunities effectively. This will allow me to progress through the program successfully by utilizing various support systems that enhance my confidence and success within the program. Various support systems listed below will play a role in assisting me with stress management while pursuing this program.

When pursuing my goals and aims, a social support system is essential, as it provides a group of individuals I can trust and ask for help and direction when necessary. My immediate social support network includes my family members, close friends, professors, and advisors. A college is a place where you can face different challenges throughout the academic calendar, and it is important to have people to lean on and rely on in times of need.

When difficulties and challenges emerge, my social support system assists me in dealing with challenging situations, and I occasionally require assistance in keeping my job goals in perspective. After a long and exhausting day in class, or if I feel overwhelmed by my schoolwork, I will invite several people in my close circle to talk to. Supportive family members and friends always cheer on my success and encourage me to endure my challenges.

Effective clinical instructors demonstrate commitment, internal motivation, problem-solving skills, flexibility and creativity, time management, leadership and management, accessibility, lifelong learning, morality, and up-to-date knowledge and skills (Samson, 2020). The clinical instructors’ characteristics, such as teaching ability, behavior, and character, will greatly have an impact on my learning and interaction skills across nursing. Through my interaction with them, I will develop a professional network with colleagues who will take part in my career development and efficient care for a patient.

Environmental support system refers to services and other factors near a learning institution that contribute to students’ overall health and safety. They are one of the factors considered when evaluating an institution’s overall health performance (Masi et al., 2011). I will take part in classroom activities and have discussions that will promote my creative capacity and critical thinking. This will enable colleagues to express themselves and allow me to learn from them.

Students learn better when they are motivated, and rewarding accomplishments is a terrific method to keep them motivated. Most school-based prizes are often given to high achievers solely, which can make weaker pupils feel left out and unmotivated. My immediate environmental support system in the classroom and hospital where I usually do my course and practical studies and thus enhancing my professionalism. In our small discussion panel, I will introduce incentives for awarding peers who excel in exams and achieve weekly goals. Here I can meet with patients, their families, and colleagues who will enhance my drive and desire to see the patient recover from their illness, thus making me focus my strengths, abilities, and my time in school doing more research.

Without an emotional support system, I would feel alone when they are going through a difficult period. During my studies, I usually get strong emotional support from my friends, parents, and counselors, who ensure that I get more fulfilled and more resilient in difficult times while undergoing my studies. College Counsellors and my parents talk to me by complimenting me on my positives, thus making me feel very positive about my studies and restoring my confidence in my academic journey. The nursing educational environment is notorious for being exhausting emotionally and mentally, and thus I and other students would be in an even greater need for a robust support system than on average. Without it, my progress throughout the course and while enrolled in my future employment will likely be undermined.

The sense of fatigue in the classroom has been linked to a number of health issues, including impairment in academics, such as decreased accuracy, more mistakes, and the inability to complete tasks. Decreased willingness to attempt schoolwork. Deteriorations in behavior such as decreased compliance and increased frustration (Masi et al., 2011). Proper support and guidance from my classroom professor will enable me to have enough rest.

In the course of my education, various support systems would help me reduce mental anguish and improve my ability to cope with stressful and difficult situations. At the same time, I’m forming and nurturing relationships with my family, friends, academics, and the rest of society. (Ditzen & Heinrichs, 2014). A strong support system has an overall impact on our performance in School during studies and our general health. Therefore, a strong support system will be very impactful in ensuring that I succeed in pursuing my Nursing program.

Ditzen, B., & Heinrichs, M. (2014). Psychobiology of social support: The social dimension of stress buffering. Restorative Neurology and Neuroscience , 32 (1), 149-162.

Masi, C., Chen, H., Hawkley, L., & Cacioppo, J. (2010). A Meta-Analysis of Interventions to Reduce Loneliness. Personality And Social Psychology Review , 15 (3), 219-266.

Samson, P. (2020). Effect of perceived social support on stress, anxiety and depression among Nepalese nursing students. Indian Journal of Continuing Nursing Education , 21 (1), 59.

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IvyPanda. (2023, July 10). What is a Support System and How it is Integral to Success as a Nursing Student? https://ivypanda.com/essays/what-is-a-support-system-and-how-it-is-integral-to-success-as-a-nursing-student/

"What is a Support System and How it is Integral to Success as a Nursing Student?" IvyPanda , 10 July 2023, ivypanda.com/essays/what-is-a-support-system-and-how-it-is-integral-to-success-as-a-nursing-student/.

IvyPanda . (2023) 'What is a Support System and How it is Integral to Success as a Nursing Student'. 10 July.

IvyPanda . 2023. "What is a Support System and How it is Integral to Success as a Nursing Student?" July 10, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/what-is-a-support-system-and-how-it-is-integral-to-success-as-a-nursing-student/.

1. IvyPanda . "What is a Support System and How it is Integral to Success as a Nursing Student?" July 10, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/what-is-a-support-system-and-how-it-is-integral-to-success-as-a-nursing-student/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "What is a Support System and How it is Integral to Success as a Nursing Student?" July 10, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/what-is-a-support-system-and-how-it-is-integral-to-success-as-a-nursing-student/.

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Building a Community Around Mental Health – Finding a Support System for Your Teen

by Polaris Teen Center | Sep 8, 2017 | Mental Health , Parenting Tips , Resources

For anyone, having access to a community of supportive people and environments are crucial aspects of healthy living.  This is especially true when it comes to teenagers. This is because adolescence is a crucial time in development in terms daily habits, balanced mental health, decision-making and social skills.  Having an available support system can make a monumental difference in the outcome of youth adolescence.

What is a support system? 

By definition, a “ support system ” refers to a network of people who provide a person with both practical and emotional support.  This means having an environment that consists of supports (people and systems) that not only help with physical needs, but needs as they relate to the emotional and social aspects of an individual.

Healthy communities around teen mental health

A key element to promoting mental health in teens is the development of healthy communities. As children develop into teens, and emerge as young adults, they often look to the adults in their lives to model healthy behaviors, and to provide opportunities for growth, skill-building, and emotional support.  Essentially, teens look to adults to promote their positive development.  These adults may be from a variety of community entities including family, school, religious organizations, etc., which can all be central to the positive development of teenagers.  Factors within healthy communities that promote positive development in teens typically include:

• Opportunity
• Skill building
• Recognition
• Connectedness
• Standards of behavior

What is a safe and supportive environment?

Healthy communities promote youth mental health and well-being.  And while the above-mentioned factors are central to the creation of these healthy communities, they do not necessarily address the issue facing teens today ( alcohol and/or drugs use , violence, bullying, teen pregnancy, etc.)

Essentially, healthy communities also require sustaining environments that promote addressing the day-to-day struggles of teens.  And in order to do so, teenagers must have a sense of:

• Physical safety – this means providing your teen access to environments and settings which are free from physical threats or harm
• Emotional safety – as with physical safety, emotional safety means your teens feels safe from bullying, humiliation, and harassment, as well as being able to openly express emotions and feelings.
• Trust – essential to the creation of a support system and safe environment is the presence of individuals your teen can trust.
• Care and nurturing – for teens to flourish, it is vital for them to feel cared for and nurtured. And while what is considered “caring” or “nurturing” may vary from teen to teen, in general, a caring and nurturing environment involves promoting healthy expression of feelings, modeling positive interpersonal interactions, and encouraging goal attainment.
• Respect – a crucial part of feeling safe and supported for teens (and in general) is the ability to be your authentic self without the fear of judgment or shame. Because adolescence is a time of exploration and “finding yourself,” teens often feel insecure and unsure of themselves.  Having an environment in which they are respected regardless of how they dress, who they are sexually attracted to, etc. is hugely important.

Adolescence is a complicated time for most.  Youth face many stressors, changes, and challenges throughout the teen years. Thus, promoting youth mental health , safety, and wellbeing through creating safe and supportive environments is vital.

Polaris Teen Center

Polaris Teen Center is a residential treatment facility for teens and adolescents suffering from severe mental health disorders. Our highly accredited facility is fully licensed and certified in Trauma Informed Care and is a part of the Behavioral Health Association of Providers (formerly AATA).

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How Social Support Contributes to Psychological Health

 JGI / Tom Grill / Getty Images

• Why It's Important

Social Support vs. Integration

Types of social support, examples of social support, health benefits of social support.

Social support is often identified as a key component of solid relationships and strong psychological health, but what exactly does it mean? Essentially, social support involves having a network of family and friends that you can turn to in times of need.

Whether you are facing a personal crisis and need immediate assistance, or you just want to spend time with people who care about you, these relationships play a critical role in how you function in your day-to-day life.

It is social support that builds people up during times of stress and often gives them the strength to carry on and even thrive.

But social support is certainly not a one-way street. In addition to relying on others, you also serve as a form of support for many people in your life. 

Why Strong Social Support Is So Important

Psychologists and other mental health professionals often talk about the importance of having a strong social support network. When trying to reach our goals or deal with a crisis, experts frequently implore people to lean on their friends and family for support.

Research has also demonstrated the link between social relationships and many different aspects of health and wellness.  Poor social support has been linked to depression and loneliness and has been shown to alter brain function and increase the risk of the following:

• Alcohol use
• Cardiovascular disease

In one study of middle-aged men over a seven-year period, those with strong social and emotional support were less likely to die than those who lacked such relationships.

If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact the  National Suicide Prevention Lifeline  at 988  for support and assistance from a trained counselor. If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.

For more mental health resources, see our  National Helpline Database .

So, which aspects of our social environments are so vital to health? And how exactly do our social environments impact our overall well-being? There are two essential aspects of our social worlds that contribute to health: social support and social integration.  

Social Support

Social support refers to the psychological and material resources provided by a social network to help individuals cope with stress. Such social support may come in different forms, and might involve:

• Helping a person with various daily tasks when they are ill or offering financial assistance when they are in need
• Giving advice to a friend when they are facing a difficult situation
• Providing caring, empathy , and concern for loved ones in need

Social Integration

Social integration is the actual participation in various social relationships, ranging from romantic partnerships to friendships. This integration involves emotions , intimacy, and a sense of belonging to different social groups, including being part of a:

• Partnership
• Religious community
• Social activity

Experts suggest that being integrated into such social relationships confers a protective benefit against maladaptive behaviors and damaging health consequences.

Supportive social networks can come in different forms and play different roles in your life. Three of the main types of social support are emotional support, instrumental support, and informational support.

Emotional Support

Sometimes the people in your life provide emotional support. They back you up when you need it and are there with a shoulder to cry on when things don't go your way. This type of support can be particularly important during times of stress or when people are feeling lonely.  

Instrumental Support

In other cases, the people in your social network might provide instrumental support. They take care of your physical needs and offer a helping hand when you need it.   This might involve bringing you a hot meal when you are sick or giving you a ride when your car is in the shop. Such support is important when people have immediate needs that must be addressed.

Informational Support

People can also provide what is known as informational support. This can involve providing guidance, advice, information, and mentoring. Such support can be important when making decisions or big changes in one's life.  

By having this form of support, people may feel less anxious and stressed out about the problems they are trying to solve thanks to the advice of a trusted friend, mentor, or loved one.

As you might imagine, people in your social networks may take on different roles. A teacher might provide informational support, while a parent might provide all three types. By having a solid social support network, you are more likely to receive the type of support that you need when you really need it.

Social support can occur in many forms and from many different people in your life. Co-workers may offer support in the workplace, while friends and family may provide emotional or practical support in other areas of your life.

A few examples of social support include:

• Listening to a friend talk about a stressful situation
• Validating another member of a support group when they talk about their feelings
• Cooking meals for a neighbor who has been feeling ill
• Praising an employee for doing a good job
• Providing constructive feedback on someone's work to help them improve
• Helping someone with housework when they are struggling with feelings of depression

So now that we understand that our social support systems involve both different types of social support as well as integration into different social groups, it is time to take a closer look at exactly how these social relationships influence both physical and mental health.

Healthy Choices and Behaviors

Participation in social groups has a normative influence on behaviors, often influencing whether people eat a healthy diet, exercise, smoke, drink, or use illegal substances.  

Clearly, social groups can sometimes have a negative influence in this regard when peer pressure and influence leads to poor or even dangerous health choices . However, group pressure and support can also lead people to engage in healthy behaviors as well. 

If you have ever tried to give up a bad habit, such as smoking, you probably realize just how important social support can be. If your social connections do not support you, it can make success much more difficult. If your friends and family offer support and encouragement, you may find achieving your goal much more possible.

Coping With Stress

Social support also helps people to cope with stress. Stress has been shown to have serious health consequences ranging from reduced immunity to increased risk of heart disease.

Being surrounded by people who are caring and supportive helps people to see themselves as better capable of dealing with the stresses that life brings.

Research has also shown that having strong social support in times of crisis can help reduce the consequences of trauma-induced disorders including PTSD.

Improves Motivation

Social relationships can also help people to stay motivated when trying to achieve their goals. People who are trying to lose weight or quit smoking, for example, often find that it helps to connect with people who are actively trying to attain those same goals.

Talking to people who are going through the same experience can often be a source of support, empathy, and motivation.

A Word From Verywell

Every once in a while, it can be important to assess your relationships:

• Do you have enough social support?
• Would you benefit from deepening your current relationships?
• Could you use some new social contacts or social outlets?

You might decide to get more proactive about giving and getting emotional support. It could greatly improve the quality of your life.

And if you're struggling to make friends or keep them, you might reach out to a therapist. A mental health provider may be able to assist you in managing your relationships in a healthy way so you can have the social support you need to be your best.

American Psychological Association. Manage Stress: Strengthen Your Support Network .

Grav S, Hellzèn O, Romild U, Stordal E. Association between social support and depression in the general population: The HUNT study, a cross-sectional survey . J Clin Nurs . 2012;21(1-2):111-20. doi:10.1111/j.1365-2702.2011.03868.x

Cohen S, Janicki-Deverts D. Can we improve our physical health by altering our social networks? .  Perspect Psychol Sci . 2009;4(4):375–378. doi:10.1111/j.1745-6924.2009.01141.x

Baumgartner JN, Susser E. Social integration in global mental health: What is it and how can it be measured? .  Epidemiol Psychiatr Sci . 2013;22(1):29–37. doi:10.1017/S2045796012000303

Pejner MN, Ziegert K, Kihlgren A. Trying to cope with everyday life--emotional support in municipal elderly care setting .  Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being . 2012;7:1–7. doi:10.3402/qhw.v7i0.19613

Morelli SA, Lee IA, Arnn ME, Zaki J. Emotional and instrumental support provision interact to predict well-being .  Emotion . 2015;15(4):484–493. doi:10.1037/emo0000084

Ko HC, Wang LL, Xu YT. Understanding the different types of social support offered by audience to A-list diary-like and informative bloggers .  Cyberpsychol Behav Soc Netw . 2013;16(3):194–199. doi:10.1089/cyber.2012.0297

Crookes DM, Shelton RC, Tehranifar P, et al. Social networks and social support for healthy eating among Latina breast cancer survivors: Implications for social and behavioral interventions .  J Cancer Surviv . 2016;10(2):291–301. doi:10.1007/s11764-015-0475-6

Gros DF, Flanagan JC, Korte KJ, Mills AC, Brady KT, Back SE. Relations among social support, PTSD symptoms, and substance use in veterans .  Psychol Addict Behav . 2016;30(7):764–770. doi:10.1037/adb0000205

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

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Why my family is my greatest support system, a reflection on my family and a tribute to the godly men and women i look up to..

I love my family.

Immediate family, extended family, and everyone in between, you all have a place in my heart.

I couldn't ask for better.

When searching through the Goodreads quotes section about family to get some ideas for this article, I kept coming across the bitter and jaded words of individuals who didn't seem to appreciate their families the same way I did mine. (To be fair, after the first page, there were an abundance of positive, thankful family quotes. Still, I write on.)

“After a good dinner one can forgive anybody, even one's own relations.” - Oscar Wilde "The capacity for friendship is God's way of apologizing for our families." - Jay McInern e

Unlike the authors of the quotes above, some of my finest memories are of time spent with my siblings and cousins, having huge get-togethers, and driving across the country with my family to go to a cousin's wedding (something that seems to be happening with more and more frequency). I've spent time at relatives' homes in Missouri, Oklahoma, Michigan, Oregon, Ohio, Canada, and all throughout southern California. I love how we bring out the best in each other, from eating the hottest of peppers ( see here ) and cliff jumping to singing hymns together at Christmas time. Also, it's great to have enough people to play full soccer games with!

The influence of my parents and grandparents cannot be overstated. Being able to grow up in such close proximity to my family has allowed me to observe their actions, how they treat one another, and how deeply they desire for their children to love the Lord. At my grandpa's 90th birthday celebration this past summer, I was touched by his heartfelt words of wanting his family to know Christ as their Lord and Savior. By listening to all the uncles and aunts sharing their stories, I learned of their resourceful and adventurous spirits, their vigor for life and hard working attitudes. They love to laugh. I've seen how they deal with stress and hard times, and I've learned from that as well.

I believe that one's family can be their most valuable support system. While away from home, it can be so, so easy to let new ideas, people, and worldviews into our lives. They're fresh, inspiring, and make us feel like a part of something bigger. Yes, these perspectives should be explored and pondered. No, they should not be innocently accepted without a second thought towards our core values. The sole reason for change should not just be because change is readily available. My relationship with God and my family form the foundation of who I am. Everything else is built on top of this.

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11 signs you grew up in hauppauge, ny, because no one ever really leaves..

Ah, yes, good old Hauppauge. We are that town in the dead center of Long Island that barely anyone knows how to pronounce unless they're from the town itself or live in a nearby area. Hauppauge is home to people of all kinds. We always have new families joining the community but honestly, the majority of the town is filled with people who never leave ( high school alumni) and elders who have raised their kids here. Around the town, there are some just some landmarks and places that only the people of Hauppauge will ever understand the importance or even the annoyance of.

Hauppauge High School

https://patch.com/new-york/hauppauge/ev--college-night-b588e8eb

We only have one high school here, and no matter what grade you are in, everyone seems to know everyone. We are a small school with a lot of spirit. Homecoming and Kicks for Cancer are two of our huge athletic events that occur every year, and the whole town comes out to support our football and soccer teams. If you don’t go to at least one of these events, are you really even from Hauppauge?

Palace or Paradise?

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hauppauge_Palace_Diner.jpg

We have two diners in Hauppauge, where it is not unlikely you may find some teenagers hanging out there until 3 in the morning, sipping on some milkshakes, or downing some fries. The diners are a very popular place to be after any school concerts or theater productions run by the school districts.

Smith Haven, only!

https://www.yelp.com/biz/smith-haven-mall-lake-grove

Smith Haven mall is pretty much the only mall anyone from Hauppauge goes to. Sure, we have Bay Shore mall and Walt Whitman mall not too far from us, but Smith Haven mall is right around the corner. It has all the shops that any mall really should have, and a pretty good food court too. You can almost never go there without seeing someone you know from home.

That 20-minute drive

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Moses_State_Park

One real perk of living in Hauppauge is the 20-minute or less drive to almost any beach on Long Island (excluding the Hamptons). We have Robert Moses beach on the South Shore and Sunken Meadow beach on the North Shore. Whether you are in the mood for a busy beach day or a quiet day at the Long Island Sound, it is not hard to find the right spot. Since we are in the middle of the island, getting to the beach is something to really look forward to.

Restaurant Row

https://www.branchinellisonline.com/hauppauge/

You know that strip of fast food places right across the street from the middle school and high school? Well, it has officially been nicknamed “Restaurant Row.” After that 2:15 dismissal at the high school, you’ll be able to find tons of students hiking across the soccer fields with determination to get their fill of Wendy’s, McDonald’s, or Panera Bread. There is also Starbucks , Burger King, and our own Branchinelli’s Pizza… which is a whole other level of amazing pizza.

https://www.therinx.com/

So, Friday nights in middle school always ended up with the majority of us ice skating with our best friends. The Rinx also happens to be one of the best rinks on the island with many teams having practices there… yet Hauppauge does not even have an ice-hockey team…. Weird.

We are that town

https://www.888vetshighway.com/

Honestly, Hauppauge is really just that town that cars pass through while trying to get to bigger towns. Veterans Highway drives right through the middle of us and you usually just end up in Smithtown or Commack. Those two towns are more well-known for being bigger and having higher populations.

The Industrial Park

https://galluzzoteam.com/blog/hauppauge-industrial-park-on-long-island

You know that huge maze of roads aligned with dull looking buildings that seems to stretch as far as the eyes can see? Yeah, the roads that are infested with geese everywhere… The industrial park is apparently one of the largest in the nation, and its almost impossible not to get lost in, unless, yes, you’re from that side of Hauppauge.

High School Teachers

https://www.hauppauge.k12.ny.us/article/1729514

Everyone just loves this town so much, that they really never seem to leave. You really know you grew up in Hauppauge when half of the teachers in the school district went to the schools when they were kids! They know the halls better than we do!

https://www.change.org/p/chick-fil-a-save-the-bagel-gallery

Yes, this is the name of the 24/7 bagel store you have been to at least once at 3 in the morning. Hot Bagels is home to the best bacon, egg, and cheese sandwiches around. It is almost impossible to go there and not wait in a huge line. That’s all right though, because chances are you’re standing next to someone you know or have seen around town.

https://foursquare.com/v/hauppauge-high-school/4bd231d777b29c74ce3f8e82/photos

Sledding at the high school is a winter tradition for all of us. Whether you are with babysitting young children or you’re with your best friends, you have most likely been to the huge hill near the soccer fields at the school. You actually get quite the rush when sleigh riding down some steep slopes and hitting some moguls!

Moana's Top 10 Life Tips

"moana" is filled with life lessons that involve far more than finding true love as many other disney movies do., 1. it's easy to be fooled by shiny things..

Tamatoa created a liar filled with shiny things simply for the purpose of tricking fish to enter and become his food. He too experiences a lesson in how easy it is to be tricked by shiny things when Moana distracts him by covering herself in glowing algae so Maui can grab his hook.

2. Listen to your heart and follow it wherever it may take you.

Moana always felt the ocean calling her name but it wasn't until she finally listened to it that she was able to learn why it had been calling her and where it was taking her.

3. Face your fears.

Moana itself teaches this lesson in nearly every scene but I think it is best demonstrated when Moana continues to go back to confront Te Ka, the goddess of fire , with the desperate hope of being able to complete the task the ocean had given her. Maui also faces his fears in this scene as he comes back to help Moana after previously saying that he wouldn't.

4. If life knocks you down try again and again until you can stand tall.

Maui was certainly feeling defeated numerous times throughout the movie but he kept getting back up and eventually became the strongest and best demigod he has ever been.

5. The ones we love never leave us, their lessons last forever.

Grandma Tala dies, it is by her faith in Moana and the lessons she has taught her that Moana is able to finally follow the call of the ocean. Grandma Tala said she wanted to come back as a stingray, which she did just when Moana needed her most.

6. When you make a mistake, fix it.

Maui made the fatal mistake stealing the heart of Te Fiti because he thought that would make the humans happy . Instead, he ensured the destruction of the ocean and all of the islands that inhabit it. Thankfully, Moana came along to teach Maui about the error of his ways and help him to fix the damage he has caused.

7. Never be afraid of being different.

Grandma Tala tells it best; she was never afraid of what other people on the island thought of her and the ways in which she lived her life differently than the them. She simply did the things that made her happy and tried to teach others to do the same.

8. All we all really want is to be loved.

The reason why Maui took the heart of Te Fiti in the first place was because he wanted the love and approval of the humans and he felt that that was the best way for him to receive it. Maui's parents abandoned him as a child so he was always desperately searching for love because it was so absent from his life.

9. You are stronger than you think.

Before embarking on her quest, Moana knew nothing about sailing let alone working with a demigod to return the heart of Te Fiti. However, she learned that she was far more powerful than she could ever had hoped to be as she persevered through every obstacle. Although there were times when she wanted to give up, at one point she even did, she always somehow found the strength to continue working towards her goal.

10. Kindness is what brings the world to life.

Moana showing Te ka kindness and compassion is what led to Te Ka returning back to Te Fiti, the living mother island and restoring the world to it's beautiful and fruitful live.

7 Types Of Students You Will Meet In College

You wish you could be #5, but you know you're probably a #6..

There are thousands of universities around the world, and each school boasts its own traditions and slogans. Some schools pride themselves on sports , while others emphasize their research facilities. While there is a myriad of differences among each and every school, there will always these seven types of students in class.

1. The one who sits in the front row

2. the one who is always online shopping.

It doesn't matter whether it's fall, winter, spring or summer - these people are online shopping every single lecture. They usually sit a row or few in front of you, and while the professor is lecturing, instead of taking notes or even trying to act like they're listening, they just aimlessly scroll through Aritzia, Forever 21 and Zara. The only time their eyes ever leave their computer screen is when class ends, so they're basically just there for giggles.

3. The one who always falls asleep

This person comes to class every day, but somehow never stays awake for more than 20 minutes. You can sometimes hear the occasional snore from a corner of a large lecture hall, or catch their heads nodding like a pendulum near the front of the class if they're the studious type . But let's be real here: we've all been one of those students at some point.

4. The one who never pays attention

This category of students is probably the most common. Sure, they'll go to class, but all they do is surf through memes on Facebook or watch others play Fortnite. These people are in class for the attendance grade, not to learn. On occasion, they may raise their hand in class to ask a generic, vague question that has already been covered but hey, gotta get that participation grade. They're just doing everything they can to survive college, and honestly, it's a mood.

5. The one who never studies (but still aces the class)

Standing as probably the most frustrating category of people in this list, these students won't know about a midterm until two days before. The day before the exam, they'll be chilling in Malibu and partying at night. They go to class every once in a while when the class time doesn't clash with one of their many elaborate social plans, but never pay attention. Somehow, they still ace all their exams and end up with the top grade in the class.

6. The one who is always stressed

These people will start studying for a midterm at least two weeks before hand, and will be so stressed about homework and classes that they spend more time worrying about the workload than actually doing the work itself. They're in desperate need of a relaxing vacation that they're too stressed to plan, and they disappear from the outside world for weeks at a time. You can usually find them in a study room in a library, where they probably have been in for the past week.

7. The one you've never seen before

You didn't even know that they were in your class to begin with because they never show up until it's exam week. Are they too smart for the class or struggling too hard to care ? The world may never know. Maybe they're just straight chilling in their apartments being lazy, but most of time, they probably didn't even put this class on their schedules. Catch them going to Disneyland on a weekday at least once a month, which is more than the frequency that they attend class.

15 Rhyme Without Reason Greek Life Function Ideas

When you have no ideas for what to wear to this date function.

I am going to a rhyme without reason date function and I have looked at so many different rhyming words and I figured there need to be a new list of words. At these functions, there are usually at least two rockers and boxers and an umpteenth amount of dogs and frogs. I have come up with a list of creative and unique ideas for these functions.

If you like what you see, get a shopping cart going with these costumes .

1. Dime and a Mime

I think that this one would be super cute except one of the dates would have to not talk the entire function which would be extremely difficult.

2. Ramp and a Lamp

This is my personal favorite except it would be difficult to dress up like a ramp.

3. Hooters and Shooters

For this you could have one person dress up like hooter's girl and have one person wear plastic shot glasses with color glue in them.

4. Sherlock and Woodstock

For this one person could wear a cape and a Sherlock hat with a magnifying glass and the other person could dress up like the bird Woodstock or the festival.

5. Spaghetti and a Yeti

StableDiffusion

This would be the coolest idea to do. To dress up like a bowl of spaghetti and a Yeti. The only thing you would have to watch would to make sure that the Yeti didn't eat the spaghetti.

6. Whale and snail

This would be very cute. You could use a backpack or a laundry basket for the shell.

7. Ladder and Bladder

I don't know if you have seen the bladder cartoon but just imagine someone dressed up like that. Wouldn't that be so cute?

8. Rake and Snake

The snake could use the rake. This would be a very easy to dress up for.

9. Jam and Ham

You could dress up like a thing of jam or like a dollop of jam and just wear a single color.

10. Pig and a Twig

You could dress with pink and then the other person could dress with brown.

11. Banana and Nana

All you need for this one is a banana costume and old lady clothes

12. Dairy and Fairy

One person would dress up as a milk carton and the other as any kind of fairy.

13. Hibachi and Versace

I think that this is the most creative pairing that has ever been thought of. The hibachi person would definitely have to have one of those tall hats they wear.

14. Trash bag and American Flag

You could put your arms through the straps that come out of the trash bag and just wrap an American flag around yourself (as long as it doesn't touch the floor).

15. Gumball Machine and American Dream

This would be super cute if the person who was the gumball put puffballs onto their shirt and wore silver pants.

What is a rhyme without reason date function?

A rhyme without reason date function is a social gathering when partners show up wearing outfits that rhyme with each other. It opens up an opportunity for creativity. It is most popular on college campuses, though it can be extended to other parts of society as a fun way to play dress-up. It also gains additional popularity around Halloween time, given the interest in costumes and dressing up for that holiday.

What are some top ideas for a rhyme without reason?

There are so many options: A Dog and a Frog could be fun. A Ramp and a Lamp, a Whale and a Snail, a Rake and a Snake, a Trash Bag and a Flag, and Bob Ross and Dental Floss are just some ideas for a rhyme without reason date function. Using your own creativity, you could think of countless more options and if you explore the web, you'll find lists out there to provide inspiration . Rhyming without reason at the end of the day is all about having fun.

What are some sources of rhyme without reason inspiration?

For starters, TikTok has a whole collection of rhyme without reason ideas. You could browse those for quite some time and find plenty of inspiration. You might also look toward Her Campus for plenty more ideas or our handy list . There's no shortage of options around the web, but some of the best ideas may come from you. Start with the rhyming perspective and then think about what fun pairings would be for a real-life rhyme without reason costume party.

A long over due thank you note to my greatest passion.

Dearest Yoga,

You deserve a great thank you.

Never would I have thought a few years ago that I would be such a huge yoga fanatic, that I would be hitting the gym almost every day to get to class, and that I would be forming all these amazing relationships with so many incredible people who also share a love for you. You've enhanced my way of life in numerous ways that I need to thank you for.

Thank you for showing me my true strength. Not only physical strength, but more importantly mental strength. You've shown me that I am more than what others may think of me, and that I can rise above any obstacle that comes through my path.

Thank you for helping me to walk through life with grace and passion. To love what I do and love the life that I share with those around me. Before experiencing yoga, I never truly understood what it was like to be passionate about something. Now that I have, not only do I know what it's like to be passionate, but also have a willing to be passionate.

Thank you for teaching me what it is like to appreciate the small things in life. Which has only helped me more to appreciate the big things. You've shown me to not only appreciate the life around me, but also to give myself the appreciation that I deserve. And more importantly, give others the appreciation that they deserve.

Thank you for allowing me to let go. Whenever I feel as if I need a break from the world, the yoga studio is the first place I think of. As soon as I enter the studio, the outside world leaves my mind. You've allowed me an escape that I will be forever thankful for.

Thank you for turning me into a mindful person. Having mindfulness is harder than it seems, especially here in today's society. Over the past couple years, I have become more mindful to the world around me, I have been able to truly be myself and let everyone else be themselves -- all thanks to yoga.

And lastly, thank you for allowing me to breathe. As simple as it sounds, breathing is the one thing that I carry around most with me off the mat. Deep breaths are what get me through the day. Throughout tough situations, emotional battles, and stressful times, I always know to come back to my yoga, to come back to my breath.

I only hope that those around me feel the same way as I do about you, yoga. You have truly transformed my life in the best way imaginable. It is a gift and a great privilege to be able to experience the practice. Thanks to you, I have grown as a person, proved to myself the true strength I have, become more aware and have ultimately started living a better life.

You're the best,

Your Yoga-Obsessed Friend

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — Family History — My Family – Is My Support and Inspiration

How My Inspiration in Life is My Family

• Categories: Family History Family Relationships Inspiration

About this sample

Words: 978 |

Published: Aug 30, 2022

Words: 978 | Pages: 2 | 5 min read

My family inspiration (essay)

Works cited.

• Anderson, J., & Sabatelli, R. M. (2011). Family Interaction: A Multigenerational Developmental Perspective. Routledge.
• Bengtson, V. L., Acock, A. C., Allen, K. R., Dilworth-Anderson, P., & Klein, D. M. (2005). Sourcebook of Family Theory and Research. SAGE Publications.
• Cohen, S. (2004). Social Relationships and Health. American Psychologist, 59(8), 676-684.
• Fiese, B. H., & Spagnola, M. (2005). Family Routines and Rituals: A Context for Development in the Lives of Young Children. Infants & Young Children, 18(4), 365-373.
• Gottman, J. M., & Silver, N. (2015). The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work: A Practical Guide from the Country's Foremost Relationship Expert. Harmony.
• Hetherington, E. M., & Stanley-Hagan, M. (1999). The Adjustment of Children with Divorced Parents: A Risk and Resiliency Perspective. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 40(1), 129-140.
• McHale, S. M., & Fivaz-Depeursinge, E. (1999). Understanding Triangulation: The Role of Marital Conflict. Family Process, 38(1), 31-49.
• Noller, P., & Feeney, J. A. (2006). Close Relationships: Functions, Forms, and Processes. Psychology Press.
• Riggio, R. E., & Feldman, R. S. (2005). Families, Relationships, and Intimate Life. Oxford University Press.
• Steinberg, L., Darling, N., & Fletcher, A. C. (1995). Authoritative Parenting and Adolescent Adjustment: An Ecological Journey. In P. Moen, G. H. Elder Jr., & K. Luscher (Eds.), Examining Lives in Context: Perspectives on the Ecology of Human Development (pp. 423-466). American Psychological Association.

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SUNY Downstate Secondary Essays: Tips & Prompts

• Cracking Med School Admissions Team

SUNY Downstate College of Medicine is located in Brooklyn, New York. The SUNY Downstate Admissions Committee looks for future medical students who are committed to improving the lives and health of Brooklyn residents. Therefore, it is important to discuss your ties with New York City and desire to improve healthcare disparities in your SUNY Downstate secondary essays. Get our  tips on how to answer SUNY Downstate secondary essays below! Feel free to  contact us  if you have any questions or if you want to work Dr. Mediratta and Dr. Rizal through our  secondary essay editing packages . 

We would definitely recommend working on your SUNY Downstate secondaries early, including pre-writing them before the official secondary is released. The SUNY Downstate application does not change its questions often.

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SUNY Downstate Secondary Application Questions: 2023 – 2024

• Will you be attending college full-time as of September 15?   If no, please describe your activities for the period of September 15 to July 1.
• What will be your support system while in medical school?  (150 words max)
• Describe what personal, urban experiences prepare you to live and study in New York City.  (150 words) 
• If you had a completed application to the College of Medicine in a prior application cycle, please highlight any changes since your previous application in a list with dates. If this question does not apply to you, enter “not applicable” in the text box below.  (150 words)
• Why do believe you are a good fit for SUNY Downstate?  (300 words)
• What is your experience with diversity, health equity and social justice?  (300 words)

Tips to Answer SUNY Downstate Secondaries

SUNY Downstate Secondaries Pre-Writing Guidance: The SUNY Downstate secondary essays don’t change much year to year. Therefore, we would strongly encourage you to pre-write these using the previous years’ prompts. Because this is a state school, we think you should try to submit this by late July of the application cycle

• Download our  Cracking Med Secondary Essay Workbook and Examples  to get all our tips about secondary application essays.

SUNY Downstate Secondary Essays Tip #1:  SUNY Downstate stands out for its dedication to serving medically underserved communities. Situated in Brooklyn, New York, the institution is deeply embedded in a diverse and dynamic urban landscape. Through various outreach programs, partnerships with local healthcare providers, and clinical experiences in community settings, students are equipped with the clinical experience to address the unique healthcare challenges faced by underserved populations. Therefore, it is important to outline the following in your SUNY Downstate secondary essays:

• Commitment to the Brooklyn community around SUNY Downstate
• Commitment to improving healthcare disparities
• Prior experience with working with diverse patient populations and prior experience with improving healthcare disparities
• Urban health experience

You can literally highlight all these elements in almost every SUNY Downstate secondary essay!

SUNY Downstate Secondary Essays Tip #2: For the SUNY Downstate secondaries question, “ Will you be attending college full-time as of September 15 ” discuss both clinical and non-clinical activities. If you can incorporate urban health activities and activities dedicated to improving healthcare disparities, this will be a plus (and what the SUNY Downstate Admissions Committee is ideally looking for!)

SUNY Downstate Secondary Essays Tip #3: For the SUNY Downstate secondaries question, “ What will be your support system while in medical school, ” think about why this question is being asked. Medical School is tough and the Admissions Committee wants to make sure that you will have the coping skills and resilience to deal with tremendous stress / hardship. Previous students have talked about how they leaned on social support, paint a clear picture about how they organize their tasks, and discuss wellness techniques like meditation that are involved with. 

SUNY Downstate Secondary Essays Tip #4: For the SUNY Downstate secondaries question, “Describe what personal, urban experiences prepare you to live and study in New York City,” here are things that will help you stand out:

• Discussing times you’ve visited New York City, especially if you’ve visited or know anyone at SUNY Downstate College of Medicine.
• Discussing conversations you’ve had with students, alumni, and professors at SUNY Downstate
• Insights about New York City health issues, such as how diversity affects health inequities.

SUNY Downstate Secondary Essays Tip #3:  If you are a re-applicant, it’s very important to discuss the following in the re-applicant essay:

• Reflections about why your application was not as strong last cycle. 
• How you addressed the weaknesses. 
• Clinical opportunities you’ve improved. Reflect on what you learned about patient care. 
• For SUNY Downstate, any activities you’ve had towards social justice, health inequities, and urban health will help you stand out in this essay!

SUNY Downstate Secondary Essays Tip #4: To answer the SUNY Downstate secondary application question, “ What is your experience with diversity, health equity and social justice “

• Discuss how you have already tried to decrease social injustices and how you plan to tackle these issues in medical school & beyond. 
• Tell stories. This is one of our two biggest pieces of advice we tell medical school applicants throughout the entire application cycle. 
• We have several curated informational and opinion articles about healthcare disparities & other healthcare current events:  Top 10 Current Events You Need To Know For Your Medical Interview – Link these current events to New York City.

SUNY Downstate Secondary Essays Tip #5: To answer the SUNY Downstate secondary essays question, “W hy do believe you are a good fit for SUNY Downstate “

• Read our important blog post on how to write “Why SUNY Downstate:”  SUNY Downstate Secondary Essays: Tips & Prompts

SUNY Downstate Secondary Essays Tip #6: Start early  and  get our help on your SUNY Downstate secondary essays and other secondary application. 

Have questions about how you can stand out? Contact us below. Need editing help on your secondary? Dr. Mediratta and Dr. Rizal can personally help you through our secondary essay packages . 

[ Read more:  Medical Schools in New York: How to Get Accepted & School Profiles ]

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SUNY Downstate Secondary Application Questions: 2022 – 2023

Note: Some of the SUNY Downstate secondary prompts changed from last year.

SUNY Downstate Secondary Application Questions: 2021 – 2022

• If you are not from the 5 boroughs of New York City, describe what personal, urban experiences prepare you to live and study in New York City. If this question does not apply to you, enter “not applicable” in the text box below. (150 words) 
• If you have a specific reason why you wish to attend SUNY Downstate or a medical school in New York City, please explain. If this question does not apply to you, enter “not applicable” in the text box below. (No word count listed)
• What in your current/future activity/activities have/will contribute to diversity, health equity and social justice? (No word count listed)

SUNY Downstate Secondary Application Questions: 2020 - 2021

Suny downstate secondary application questions: 2019 – 2020, contact us with questions, we'll answer any and all your questions about medical school we typically respond within 1 business day..

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Grammar Software

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Types of supporting statements for your essay.

In essays, the body typically consists of a series of supporting statements that are designed to explain “why” you’re expressing a particular opinion.  This “why” can take the form of many different things.  Generally, though, it will fall under one (or more) of these five general types of supporting statements.

1. Specific examples

Examples are among the most popular supporting statements for essays, as they provide a tangible account that the reader can imagine, making your assertions more “real” in their minds.  If you argue that a particular politician is corrupt, for instance, you can state instances that depict that person in such a manner, making your claim more believable.

A fact is something that has been derived objectively – it’s something proven and undeniable.  As such, facts that support your assertions  – from statistics to scientific truths – make for some very compelling evidence.

When you provide supporting statements that aren’t completely “facts,” they generally fall under this category.  Reasons are typically drawn from both facts and opinions tied together by sound logic.  As such, they make sense as an argument, despite not owning full immunity to being challenged.  Want an example?  Read how many times we’ve promoted the use of a grammar checking software using pure “reasoning” in these pages.

4. Descriptions and anecdotes

Describing a particular situation or relaying an anecdotal event can sometimes prove to be a good method of illustrating a point.  Like reasons, they are often subject to interpretation.  When done well, however, they can illuminate unclear points.

5. Expert opinion

People may discount your opinion, but few will do the same for an expert in the field.  If you chance upon an authority on the subject that agrees with you, exploiting their words as a way to support your point can be very powerful.

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Guest Essay

Stanley McChrystal: Why Kamala Harris Has Won Me Over

By Stanley McChrystal

General McChrystal is a retired Army general and the founder of the McChrystal Group, a consulting firm.

Some deeply consequential decisions are starkly simple. That is how I view our upcoming presidential election. And that is why I have already cast my ballot for character — and voted for Vice President Kamala Harris.

As a citizen, veteran and voter, I was not comfortable with many of the policy recommendations that Democrats offered at their convention in Chicago or those Republicans articulated in Milwaukee. My views tend more toward the center of the political spectrum. And although I have opinions on high-profile issues, like abortion, gun safety and immigration, that’s not why I made my decision.

Political narratives and policies matter, but they didn’t govern my choice. I find it easy to be attracted to, or repelled by, proposals on taxes, education and countless other issues. But I believe that events and geopolitical and economic forces will, like strong tides, move policymakers where they ultimately must go. In practice, few administrations travel the course they campaigned on. Circumstances change. Our president, therefore, must be more than a policymaker or a malleable reflection of the public’s passions. She or he must lead — and that takes character.

Character is the ultimate measure of leadership for those who seek the highest office in our land. The American revolutionary Thomas Paine is said to have written, “Reputation is what men and women think of us; character is what God and angels know of us.” Regardless of what a person says, character is ultimately laid bare in his or her actions. So I pay attention to what a leader does.

History has shown us that the office of the presidency unfailingly reveals the occupant’s character. Moments of disappointment and crisis — like Jimmy Carter’s acceptance of responsibility for the failed 1980 Iran hostage rescue mission, John F. Kennedy’s navigation of the terrifying 13-day confrontation over Soviet missiles in Cuba and Abraham Lincoln’s courageous issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation — said little about policy but much about character.

And we’ve seen both sides of the coin: Failures of character, such as those of Richard Nixon and his vice president Spiro Agnew, dishonor and potentially threaten our republic. Character will dictate whether we stand by our NATO allies and against Vladimir Putin’s continued aggression. Character will dictate whether we have a commander in chief who honors and respects the men and women who serve in uniform.

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