Why You Should Check on Your Friends
Some of the hardest battles are fought within which makes it difficult for some people to express their feelings. Recently, America lost an icon, Stephen “Twitch” Boss, to mental health complications. Those who seem to be the most positive and uplifting may also be those who are struggling the most. Checking in on your friends’ mental health is important to building a strong support system while helping to grow a bond with one another. Keep reading to learn more about why you should check on your friends.
Checking In on their Mental Health
Let’s be real– the past few years have been stressful for everyone. Between the ongoing pandemic, economic blunder, and human rights issues, almost everyone can admit that they found themselves struggling with their mental health. Yet, mental health still carries a negative stigma that influences people to hold back their emotions and embody a false persona while carrying out their day– working, doing hobbies, and keeping up with relationships.
Everyone could use a shoulder to cry on sometimes, so be a supportive and attentive friend during those times. It may be difficult for a friend to reach out for help themselves, so it is important to be consistent in checking in on your friends’ mental health. Asking “how have you been doing lately?” can mean a lot more to someone than you think. Sometimes all a person needs is to know that someone cares about them in order to feel like themselves again.
Builds a Support System
Let your friends know that you are there for them in whatever they are going through. Dr. Debra O’Shea explains that having a solid support system can help promote good emotional health and a sense of community during trying times. Being surrounded by loved ones during tough times can provide your friends with hope and encouragement.
Strengthens your Bond
While supporting your friends through tough times, it is inevitable that you become vulnerable and honest with each other about your emotions. Though it can be scary to open up, it shows that your friends are comfortable with you and trust you. Allowing yourselves to dig deeper into your emotional selves can strengthen your bond by learning how you can relate to certain topics and giving each other advice. Though checking in with your friends can be simple or elaborate, any effort to show that you care can strengthen your bond.
Show your friends how much you appreciate and love them even if you feel like you don’t have a reason because you never know how much they could need it. Just a simple text or a surprise visit could be the remedy to your friends’ tough times. Don’t forget to check on your friends!
Do you have a friend you can count on to always check in on you? Share this blog with them!